Azim: Government deceived the youth by selling fuel to the public at high prices after purchasing it at lower rates

Male' City Mayor Adam Azim has accused the government of selling fuel to the public at inflated prices despite purchasing it at lower rates, while also levying heavy taxes on the youth.

Speaking at the "No to Merging Elections" rally, Azim highlighted that fuel prices were hiked less than two days after the government assured the public there would be no such increase. Azim noted that while it previously cost 90 Rufiyaa to fill a motorcycle's fuel tank, the price has now risen to 140 Rufiyaa. He described this as a significant betrayal of the youth by the government.

Azim stated that, based on his experience leading STO, the company maintains stocks of fuel purchased at lower rates, with additional low-cost shipments already in the pipeline. He emphasized that there is no justification for selling fuel purchased at lower prices at a higher rate, noting that STO typically holds its purchased fuel reserves on international vessels.

As a former executive of STO, I am well aware that the company maintains fuel reserves purchased at lower rates. There is no justification for selling fuel bought at lower prices at an inflated cost. Furthermore, STO currently holds fuel stocks on international vessels that were also acquired at lower prices. Therefore, there is no need to increase prices for the upcoming shipment either. While I do not see an issue with adjusting prices for fuel arriving a month from now, what has happened today is unacceptable. By increasing prices on fuel already in stock and shipments already secured at lower rates, the government is forcing the public—particularly young motorcyclists—to pay more for petrol. This effectively imposes a heavy tax on our youth. Consequently, the public recognizes that these actions are fundamentally wrong.

Male' City Mayor Adam Azim

Azim stated that the public now recognizes this administration as one built on deceit, and that following the government's direction would yield no benefit for the people. He further asserted that the individual entrusted with leading the Maldives over the past two and a half years has consistently and continuously lied to the citizens.

Azim stated that the upcoming vote is a deceptive and calculated move aimed at consolidating all elections. He further alleged that the government’s decision to hold these two votes simultaneously is a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. He also accused the government of deceiving Malé residents by failing to hand over promised land plots and instead relocating them to various other locations. Azim added that the land allocation program initiated by the MDP government has been undermined, claiming that funds are being wasted on the reclamation of a site called 'Rasmalé.'

Azim stated that the current administration is one that has thrown the entire nation into turmoil and lacks the courage to face the public. He urged citizens to reject the proposal to synchronize elections in the upcoming polls.