Nazil Criticises President’s Address as Failing Constitutional Standards

Ibrahim Nazil, a parliamentary group leader of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has criticised the presidential address delivered by Mohamed Muizzu, alleging that it failed to meet constitutional requirements and lacked substantive detail on the state of the nation.

Speaking during Tuesday’s parliamentary sitting in response to the address as the minority leader, the Hithadhoo South MP argued that the speech did not fulfil the obligations set out under Article 84 of the Constitution, which requires the President to outline the condition of the country and propose measures for improvement.

Nazil described the address as “a colourless copy” of the previous year’s speech, stating that it repeated earlier narratives without presenting new progress or concrete plans.

“The same dreamy stories told before this honourable house and the Maldivian people over the past two years have been repackaged and delivered to this Parliament once again,” he said.

He further contended that the address failed to provide clarity on the current economic and social situation, and instead offered revised timelines for previously announced initiatives that remain incomplete.

Nazil also criticised several government policies and pledges. Referring to reforms to the national health insurance scheme, Aasandha, he claimed services had deteriorated since the changes were introduced and urged the government to halt reforms if they reduce access to care. He additionally said promises to import high-quality medicines from Europe had not materialised, with shortages now affecting basic supplies.

On housing, Nazil said that despite the administration designating the previous year as focused on housing, no projects had commenced and no units had been delivered. He called for an explanation of how MVR 2.6 billion allocated in the budget for housing had been spent.

The MP also noted the absence of updates in the address on several major initiatives, including plans for a development bank, bunkering services, a monorail project, the proposed financial centre in Funadhoo, and the planned undersea connection between Malé and Rasmalé.

Turning to economic management, Nazil accused the government of increasing debt despite earlier commitments to reduce borrowing. He argued that rising expenditure and inefficiencies had made it difficult to balance the budget.

He further pointed to currency pressures, stating that the US dollar exchange rate had reached unprecedented levels despite assurances it would remain stable. Nazil also criticised the government for not reducing political staffing levels, warning that shifting employees between ministries and state-owned enterprises could undermine confidence among international financial institutions such as the IMF and World Bank.

Nazil concluded by expressing disappointment that the President’s address did not adequately outline the nation’s condition or a clear path forward, as required by the Constitution.

During his speech, ruling party members attempted to interrupt proceedings.