Tourist arrivals to the Maldives as of May 19 have decreased by approximately 100,000 compared to the same period last year: Ameer
He emphasized that the government must disclose the true facts to the public regarding the country's financial situation rather than engaging in political rhetoric to downplay concerns, while further warning of the potential risks associated with managing state affairs in a secretive manner.
Former Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer speaks during RaajjeTV's "Fala Surukhee" program on May 20, 2024. | Screen image
Former Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer has stated that tourist arrivals to the Maldives as of May 19 have decreased by approximately 100,000 compared to the same period last year.
Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Fala Surukhee" program, Ameer stated that the decline in tourism is evident from the current arrival figures. He noted that, according to statistics, daily tourist arrivals have decreased by 1,600 compared to the figures from the past two years.
Former Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer has stated that the government's current assertion that there is no cause for concern regarding the Maldives' economy is, in itself, the greatest cause for concern.
Former Finance Minister Ameer stated that as tourism remains the sole beacon of the Maldivian economy, the industry must not be allowed to decline. He emphasized that compared to last year, tourist arrivals have decreased by over 100,000, a downturn that will have a profound negative impact on the sector.
Ameer stated that while the global economy is being shaken by the conflict in the Middle East, the government is failing to make adequate preparations. He further emphasized the importance of providing accurate information to the public.
"What we are witnessing is a government operating in total secrecy, keeping the public completely in the dark," Ameer said.
Ameer noted that beyond the tourism sector, construction companies and small businesses are also heading toward bankruptcy. He further stated that although debt repayments and salary disbursements have not yet declined, the overall economy remains in a severely weakened state.
Former Finance Minister Ameer has criticized the government's assertions that there is no cause for concern regarding the country's financial situation. He noted that while the Maldives is currently managing its debt obligations and payroll, the government has failed to implement the necessary fiscal measures being adopted by other nations in response to the global economic climate. Ameer further stated that claims of stability and reassurances that there is no reason for alarm are merely political rhetoric. He warned that the consequences of this inaction will inevitably have to be faced in the future.
