PNC's policies are incompatible with the decentralization system; only MDP can deliver decentralized development: former President Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that there are numerous reasons to vote for MDP candidates in the upcoming local council elections, asserting that the ruling PNC’s policies are incompatible with the decentralization system and instead favor a centralized approach to governance.

He made these remarks during an interview with RaajjeTV following the conclusion of MDP campaign activities in Sh. Foakaidhoo.

Former President Solih stated that the MDP has always maintained that national development can only be achieved by developing individual islands and creating opportunities for families to thrive within their own communities. However, he noted that the current administration operates solely on top-down orders, alleging that the PNC-led government does not allow councils the freedom to function according to the needs and consultations of the people. He further remarked that while there are educated individuals among the PNC candidates, the party's overarching policies remain fundamentally opposed to the decentralized system of governance.

Reflecting on the current situation in Foakaidhoo, former President Solih stated that the projects currently underway on the island are being funded solely through the local council's budget. He highlighted that the construction of the ferry terminal and restaurant, as well as the recently opened volleyball court, were all initiatives led by the council. He further noted that none of the promises made by the government have been fulfilled on the island.

I am certain that among the candidates contesting from the PNC, there are highly qualified individuals. However, that administration’s policies are fundamentally alienated from the system of decentralization. Their approach is one of centralization; their policy framework leaves no room for action except by following orders from the top. A PNC government does not provide the space to address the needs of a community through local consultation or discussions within the councils. Therefore, if we want to develop our islands—considering that we only had three effective years to work during our five-year term—the transformation brought to these islands is clearly visible. Such progress can only be sustained under an MDP government. This is precisely why it is essential to vote for an MDP council.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih

Furthermore, former President Solih highlighted significant public grievances regarding the lack of progress on the construction of an Islamic Center in Foakaidhoo, four months after an old mosque was demolished to make way for the project. He noted that these delays have caused substantial difficulties for residents attending Friday prayers, initially forcing them to congregate in the school hall. The former President added that Friday prayers are currently being held in a mosque constructed by a private donor.

Former President Solih stated that the current administration made "fake" and deceptive promises during both the presidential and parliamentary elections, noting that the public has yet to see any of these pledges come to fruition. However, he highlighted that the MDP's campaign in Foakaidhoo is progressing with great momentum. He further noted that a significant number of former PNC supporters are now crossing over to join the MDP.

He expressed confidence that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) would secure all five seats on the Foakaidhoo Island Council, as well as all five seats on the Women’s Development Committee in the upcoming elections. President Solih further stated that councils aligned with the MDP’s ideology are essential to ensuring the sustainability of the development projects being implemented across the islands.