MDP calls for investigation and public disclosure of findings into Azaan’s death due to negligence
The MDP has expressed grave concern over the difficulties citizens face in accessing Aasandha and essential medication, alleging these challenges stem from government incompetence and corruption. The party called for independent investigations into deaths caused by negligence and urged the administration to cease the misappropriation of public funds and ensure the health and safety of the people.
From a gathering held by the MDP. | Mihaaru | Nishan Ali / Mihaaru
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has called for a comprehensive and independent investigation into the death of a young child, following allegations that the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) withheld authorization for a life-sustaining medical tube. The party further demanded that the findings of this investigation be made public.
The Ministry of Health is currently investigating the death of six-year-old Ibrahim Azaan, following allegations that state institutions failed to provide a life-sustaining feeding tube, leading to fatal negligence. Azaan, who suffered from cerebral palsy, had been dependent on a gastrostomy tube for feeding since July last year. However, the essential medical device was unavailable at the country’s main state hospital and could not be found in any pharmacy across the nation.
In a statement, the MDP called on all relevant authorities to investigate this case of willful negligence and to make the findings of the investigation public.
The MDP has called upon all relevant authorities to take necessary measures based on the findings of these investigations to ensure that such tragic incidents do not recur. The party noted that Maldivian citizens seeking services at hospitals and clinics are increasingly facing disruptions in Aasandha coverage for consultations and diagnostic tests. Furthermore, they highlighted a surge in public grievances regarding the unavailability of Aasandha for prescriptions, forcing citizens to bear these medical costs out of pocket.
The party stated that it has received information suggesting the current situation is a result of the government's attempts to facilitate corruption and illicit enrichment through medicine imports. They alleged that the administration has altered the procedures of the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) and the State Trading Organization (STO) to ensure that medicine and medical supplies are procured from specific pre-selected parties.
The MDP stated that it believes numerous families are currently enduring difficulties due to the unavailability of essential medicines. The party further warned that there is a significant risk of lives being lost due to negligence and delays in receiving necessary medical treatment.
In the statement, the party expressed deep concern that the government’s incompetence and negligence have imposed an unbearable burden on a public already struggling with rising inflation and a high cost of living. The statement further urged the government to prioritize spending on public safety and healthcare instead of squandering state funds.
