MDP’s housing project for Malé residents was halted to boost Muizzu's personal image: Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has accused President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of halting a major housing project initiated by the previous Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) administration in order to boost his own public image.

Speaking at the MDP National Congress, Solih claimed that the housing initiative, designed to address the long-standing housing crisis in Malé City, was deliberately halted by the current administration. He alleged that the Muizzu administration scrapped the project in favor of launching what he described as a “useless” development in the Fushidhiggaru lagoon, characterizing it as a show of arrogance rather than a genuine effort to address the nation’s needs.

Solih stressed that there is nothing today that is not concerning, adding that the country is facing serious governance issues under the current administration.

The former president also accused the government of undermining the judiciary, claiming that public confidence in the legal system has been eroded due to political interference.

Highlighting that the Muizzu administration has interfered with and ruined the entire judiciary, Solih stated that, that’s why MDP must take the lead in addressing this crisis and holding the government accountable.

Solih further criticized the administration’s approach to governance, accusing it of dismantling the decentralized system and centralizing power. He highlighted the importance of a free press in such times, stating that journalism plays a critical role in exposing the government’s actions.

He concluded by calling on MDP members to mobilize in line with a resolution passed by the party’s National Council, which outlines plans for a series of protests in Malé. According to Solih, these demonstrations aim to oppose what he described as President Muizzu’s “deliberate and continuous efforts” to dismantle the country’s constitutional framework since taking office.