President Abdullah Yameen has once again amped up the housing pledge, promising to construct 7,000 flats this year and 8,000 flats next year.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for 1000 photographers, President Yameen said the construction of the flats were carried out by taking loans and therefore, delays were expected. However, he assured this year work will begin on 7,000 flats, followed by 8,000 more next year.

The president pledged to create at least 15,000 housing units in this administration.

Responding to the criticisms of the housing scheme, President Yameen claimed the opposition lacked substance. Noting that while flats can be created, he said that payment options for the flats must also be secured.

While this administration had made the claim, the Government’s last debacle with housing flats had earned heavy criticism.