The incumbent administration has served the people without prejudice or discrimination over the past four years, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

He said this in his address to the nation at the official Republic Day reception held at Dharubaaruge on Friday evening.

As such, recalling his presidential pledge to realize the people's hopes, the president stated that four years of his administration have gone in service to the people without any form of discrimination.

President Solih described the state of the nation four years ago to have been a time of uncertainty and fear, when the constitutional rights and freedoms of the people were stifled.

It was also a time that political leaders were imprisoned and the country was isolated from the international community.

He noted that four years ago, the people desired a fair government that would ensure their rights, would be accountable to the people, uphold the constitution and ensure the rule of law, adding that the people wanted a government that would provide a cohesive environment and equitable development without prejudice or discrimination.

Noting that the responsibilities that rested on his shoulders when he took office began with decentralizing powers, the president spoke about the achievements the people appreciate today including ensured income and jobs over the past four years and an affordable high-speed transport network between the islands.

The president also touched down on his administration’s commitment to justice and good governance.

Further, President Solih spoke regarding the tragic fire that took the lives of 10, in the early hours of Thursday.

He stated that it was the most tragic incident to befall the Maldives in recent history and assured that the administration highly prioritizes ensuing investigations and other matters related to the incident. And he offered condolences on behalf of the people and government to the families of those who died in the fire.

President Solih noted that several tragic incidents have stemmed from the high level of congestion in the capital, Malé City, adding that living near garages, carpentry shops, warehouses and other industrial workshops remains unsafe to the people.

Highlighting that the administration had relocated chemical warehouses from the congested capital, the president stressed on the urgent need to move other industrial workplaces away from residential regions.

First Lady Fazna Ahmed, state dignitaries, and government officials attended the Republic Day reception.