Contrary to the President's remarks in the Presidential Address, 23 essential items sold at subsidized rates through STO remain unavailable in Addu City: Mayor Nizar
Despite the President's assertion that 23 essential commodities are being supplied to Addu City at subsidized rates through STO, Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar has refuted these claims, stating that the initiative is not being implemented as described and that the cost of goods in the city remains high.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu speaks with Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar during a visit to Addu City. | President's Office | President's Office
Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar has stated that the 23 essential commodities are not available at discounted prices from STO in Addu, contradicting claims made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu in his Presidential Address.
The President stated that one of the primary indicators of a nation's economic stability is the ability to maintain consistent prices for essential goods required by the public. In this regard, the President noted that significant efforts have been undertaken over the past year.
Although the President stated in his Presidential Address that the list of essential food items has been expanded to 23 varieties and measures have been taken to ensure their availability at affordable prices in the Malé market, he did not provide further details regarding the matter.
"We have announced the search for STO agents to supply 23 essential commodities to islands with populations of 3,000 or more. Arrangements are currently being finalized to ensure these 23 items are provided at STO's official rates. Furthermore, STO has begun importing these essential food items directly from abroad to Addu City and Kulhudhuffushi City. As a result, these 23 basic commodities will be available in those cities at the same prices as in Male'," the President stated.
When questioned regarding the President's remarks, Nizar stated that STO sells goods in Addu at significantly inflated prices. He noted that while a few items, such as noodles, might be available at lower rates, he believes this was not done with sincere intentions. Nizar further emphasized that there has been no noticeable reduction in prices that genuinely benefits the public.
"I have heard those claims. Most of what the President says does not align with reality, especially regarding such significant changes. Furthermore, Addu has been facing a severe cement shortage for about four months, leaving the local construction industry at a standstill," Nizar said.
In this year's Presidential Address, the President noted that a duty-free goods storage zone was established at Kulhudhuffushi Port on August 26 last year. He further announced that a similar duty-free zone will be established at Addu Port within this month, with services expected to commence shortly.
When questioned regarding the matter, Nizar stated that such initiatives cannot be implemented solely at the President's discretion or command. He emphasized that the establishment of such zones and the introduction of related tax reforms can only be achieved through the People's Majlis. Nizar further noted that the specific details and framework of any such designated zone must be formally disclosed.
Nizar expressed concern over such statements being made without providing specific details. He noted that vague remarks are difficult to address or hold anyone accountable for. He further stated that if such initiatives are undertaken with sincere intentions, the establishment of such a zone must be done in a manner that offers the greatest benefit to Addu. Nizar also remarked that making such decisions without consulting the council raises questions regarding the government's sincerity.
