Gov’t Stands Firm Amidst Allegations by MDP

The current cabinet has stood firm in support of the administration amidst allegations made by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid.

Shahid, during his visit to Meemu atoll Raiymandhoo as part of the opposition party’s ongoing campaign efforts, shared a video message accusing the current administration of halting developmental initiatives across the country, irrespective of the islands’ size and population.

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In his video message, Shahid claimed that the water and sanitation project in Raiymandhoo had reached 90% completion, with the powerhouse project nearing completion as well. He alleged that all ongoing projects on the island had been halted by the current administration.

Responding to Shahid’s claims, Abdulla Muththalib, the current Minister of Infrastructure, stated that the project had been initiated before the presidential election solely to secure votes. He further explained that the environmental impact assessment (EIA) necessary before project commencement had not been completed by the end of the former government’s term.

Muththalib also highlighted that the water and sanitation project in Raiymandhoo had faced delays during the previous government’s tenure, noting that the project, which began two years earlier, had only achieved 26% completion thus far.

Minister of Homeland Security Ali Ihusan defended the current government, asserting that the public had not re-elected the MDP-led government in the last election due to frustration with the former administration’s policies.

Minister of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works, Adam Shareef, also weighed in, pointing out discrepancies in projects initiated by the former administration. He highlighted the halting of the Raa atoll Alifushi airport development project during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s government and the damage to Raa atoll Hulhudhuffaaru roads under the previous regime.

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed supported Shareef’s stance, affirming that several projects had stalled prior to the current government’s tenure. He emphasized that the current government had been diligently working to relaunch all stalled projects.

In January, Shaheem had announced that his ministry owed MVR 27 million to various contractors, debts incurred during the previous government’s term.

Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage, Adam Naseer Ibrahim, also addressed Shahid’s criticism, stating that the truth about Raiymandhoo’s stalled sanitation project was evident, attributing the delay to the previous government.

Both Minister of Health Dr. Abdulla Khaleel and Minister of Higher Education Dr. Mariyam Mariya refuted allegations made by former government officials.

Tensions between MDP and PNC are at a peak as parliamentary elections are scheduled for April 21st, with both parties vying for victory.