Current administration is completely neglecting welfare of Maldivians living in the Middle East: Saudullah

Saudulla Ahmed, a senior member of the Trade Association, has stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration has completely failed to monitor the well-being of Maldivian citizens residing in the Middle East amid the ongoing conflict.

Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Fala Surukhee" program, Saudullah stated that while the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has sparked immense global concern, the current administration appears indifferent to the situation. He emphasized that the government must assess the potential impact on the nation if the war is prolonged and explore alternative solutions. Furthermore, he stressed the necessity of having a robust plan in place to ensure food security and prevent the public from facing starvation.

Saudulla stated that while government officials, including the Foreign Minister and the Economic Minister, continue to draw salaries funded by taxpayer money, they are failing to fulfill their responsibilities. He further noted that the authorities have completely neglected the well-being and living conditions of the numerous Maldivian families residing across the Middle East.

Emphasizing that all developments related to the war must be clearly disclosed to the public, Saudullah stated that the current administration is not observed to be taking any such action.

Highlighting the Maldives' economic vulnerability, Saudulla stated that the country is significantly impacted by the current situation and emphasized that the government must provide the public with comprehensive information. He further noted that the authorities must identify the challenges and concerns facing business owners and take necessary action to address them.

Compared to us, Qatar possesses a significantly larger economy. Dubai serves as a central hub connecting Europe, Asia, and China, acting as a primary distribution point for goods across these regions. Since Dubai is a Middle Eastern nation, it is now entangled within the sphere of this conflict. Consequently, the impact on a highly vulnerable economy like ours will be difficult to even estimate. I do not see any indication from the Maldivian government that they are even aware a war is taking place. We are not seeing any effort to justify the situation to the public, explain the global shocks, or share concerns with the business community. There is no visible work being done to find a path forward that ensures we can remain self-sufficient and avoid a food security crisis.

Saudulla Ahmed, a leading figure in the Trade Association.

Referring to the recent hike in petrol and diesel prices in the Maldives, Saudullah stated that President Muizzu had attempted to distort the facts surrounding the matter.

At the onset of the conflict, President Muizzu stated that fuel was being sourced from Oman, suggesting there would be no issues. He noted that two or three tankers from Oman were already en route. However, Oman is also situated within the conflict zone. Therefore, we believe President Muizzu is failing to demonstrate any serious consideration for the gravity of this war or the resulting hardships faced by the Maldivian people. Furthermore, the current fuel stock was not purchased at high market prices. Despite being acquired at lower rates, prices have been hiked by more than 20 percent. One can only imagine the resulting impact this will have on our economy.

Saudulla Ahmed, a leading figure in the Trade Association.

Saudulla expressed deep concern over the government's failure to take any preparatory measures for the current situation. He further stated that this lack of action demonstrates a disregard for the resulting changes and hardships imposed on the lives of citizens.