Current administration is trapped in a debt trap, and the Maldives requires significant transformation: Nasheed
29 މެއި 2026 | ހުކުރު 09:57Former President Nasheed has warned that the Maldives risks falling into an economic abyss as national debt soars to unprecedented levels, forcing the government to secure additional loans just to service existing obligations. Speaking in Maamigili, he cautioned that failure to manage this debt could lead the country into a dire financial crisis similar to that of neighboring Sri Lanka, emphasizing that sweeping systemic reforms are urgently needed to steer the nation away from this dangerous trajectory.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed speaks at a campaign rally. | Raajje MV
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration has fallen into a debt trap by taking on additional loans to service existing debt.
As Nasheed contests for the position of MDP Chairperson, he has been conducting his "Bodu Badhalu" (Great Change) campaign across the Maldives. During a meeting with the residents of ADh. Maamigili, he expressed his deep concerns regarding the country's current debt situation.
Nasheed stated that the national debt has escalated to extreme levels, warning that the resulting hardships and consequences will be borne by the Maldivian people. He further noted that the current administration has fallen into a debt trap, as it continues to take on additional loans to service existing debt.
Furthermore, Nasheed stated that there is a risk the Maldives could face a default if the country remains trapped in debt and unable to fulfill its repayment obligations.
He noted that Maldivians are well aware of the consequences faced by neighboring Sri Lanka after it defaulted on its debt. He further remarked that not enough time has passed for the public to have forgotten the severity of that situation.
Referring to the current situation in the Maldives, Nasheed stated that a major nationwide transformation is necessary to bring about change. He further noted that the MDP has always been a party of reform, dedicated to working in the best interests and for the benefit of the people.
