MP Meekail Submits Emergency Motion Over War’s Impact on Maldives Economy, Tourism and Supplies

South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Nasym has submitted an emergency motion in Parliament highlighting the critical impact of the escalating Middle East war on the Maldives’ economy, tourism industry, and essential supplies, calling for urgent government action.

The emergency motion, submitted under Section 192 of the Parliament’s Rules of Procedure, was debated during today’s parliamentary session. MP Meekail raised serious concerns over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, triggered after Iran launched an offensive in response to attacks by Israel and the United States. The war is rapidly spreading to neighboring countries, posing a major threat to regional stability.

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MP Meekail pointed out that Iran’s attack on a U.S. military base in Doha, Qatar, on May 23 has already led to international disruptions, including suspension of air travel from key transit hubs such as Doha and Dubai. He noted that air transportation has been interrupted, with reports of flight delays affecting passenger movement.

He warned that the government must act swiftly to ensure the continued import of essential goods such as oil, gas, food, and nutritional supplies for children. “It is the government’s responsibility to assess the availability of these items and to publicly inform citizens if shortages are anticipated,” he emphasized.

The motion urged the government to take immediate precautionary steps and make necessary preparations to mitigate the impact of the unfolding crisis. He also called on the government to provide accurate information to the public and refrain from misleading the nation about the seriousness of the situation.

Despite the usual trend of rejecting motions submitted by MDP members, PNC lawmakers voted in favor of accepting today’s motion for debate. However, PNC MPs used the opportunity to place blame on the previous MDP-led government for the current economic struggles.

Majority Leader Ibrahim Falah, MP for Inguraidhoo, claimed that the Maldives is facing financial hardship because of the high debt levels created during MDP’s time in office. “Ironically, MDP raises these concerns now, when they are the ones who left the economy in a vulnerable state,” Falah said. He also accused the MDP of repeatedly harming the tourism sector when in opposition, saying, “They are known for boycotting tourism to make political statements.”

Several other PNC members echoed this criticism, arguing that the economic vulnerabilities faced today stem from mismanagement and unsustainable policies under previous administrations.

Nonetheless, the Parliament acknowledged the urgency of the current global developments and the need for the state to act decisively to mitigate the potential fallout.