Former Member of Parliament for HA. Hoarafushi constituency, Ahmed Saleem has issued a strong response to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent remarks regarding island-level services.

Speaking during the “Hoarafushi Day” ceremony held Thursday night, Saleem highlighted that the Hoarafushi Airport was developed to ease travel for patients, create employment opportunities for youth and support the expansion of businesses and resort development in the area. He noted, however, that these goals are currently not being realized, with little visible progress taking place.

Addressing President Muizzu’s statement that laboratories in health centers across all islands would soon be capable of conducting all tests locally, Saleem argued that citizens require services that meet international standards. He said that the continued emphasis on “island-level” facilities falls short of public expectations, as people seek broader and higher-quality services that go beyond basic local provisions.

Saleem further noted that the migration of families from islands to Malé represents a significant loss to island communities. He stressed that unless this trend is reversed through improved services and opportunities, island populations will continue to decline and genuine satisfaction among citizens will remain out of reach.