Government is scrambling to win the election because they have failed over the past two and a half years: President Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the government is "scrambling" and exerting immense effort to win Saturday’s election because the entire administration has failed over the past two and a half years.

He made these remarks while addressing the "Heyvalla Thayyaaru" mass rally held in Hulhumale'.

Solih stated that during his campaign travels to numerous islands across the country, he has encountered a starkly different sentiment from the public. He noted that complaints are echoing from every direction, with citizens expressing dissatisfaction with the current administration and criticizing its policies as flawed. Furthermore, Solih remarked that the government has failed to deliver any results that resonate with the people.

Speaking at the gathering, Solih urged the public to vote for MDP candidates on April 4th to ensure their concerns are addressed through practical action. He further remarked that given the intensity of the ongoing campaign, he occasionally finds himself questioning whether the current atmosphere reflects a parliamentary race or a presidential election.

Sometimes I find myself wondering whether this is a presidential campaign or a parliamentary election. The level of activity across the entire country is immense, and it is just as intense in Malé. This has truly evolved into a fiercely competitive election campaign. Looking at the posters and banners displayed throughout the capital, one might think we are in the process of electing the President of the Republic. It has certainly become a significant election, a fact evident to both the government and the public. What is the reason for this? It is because the government elected by the people has failed over the past two and a half years. Which of their promises have been fulfilled as pledged? Consider the actions they took from their very first day in office. They began by stripping independent institutions of their powers.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih

Criticizing the government's actions, former President Solih stated that from the very first day President Dr. Muizzu took office, he has sought to undermine the authority of independent institutions and consolidate all power within his own hands. He further noted that the independence of bodies such as the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Elections Commission has been compromised. Solih alleged that instead of providing transparent information to the public, these institutions are now operating solely according to the President's directives.

Furthermore, Solih stated that in an attempt to exert influence over the judiciary and undermine the authority of the People’s Majlis, the government had interfered with the Supreme Court. He noted that even when the legality of a law passed by Parliament was submitted for judicial review, the government influenced the court and removed the presiding judges from their positions. Solih further asserted that the government is failing to fulfill its pledges and continues to spread falsehoods. He added that the sentiment echoing across the entire country is one of widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration's performance.