PNC members from Maavah express dissatisfaction with government over Laamu Atoll airport issue
Residents of Maavah have launched a petition to the President expressing concern over the government's decision to develop the second airport in Laamu Atoll at Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo. The island's community, which provided significant support to the current administration during the presidential election, stated that relocating the project feels like a betrayal of their trust and are formally requesting the government to reconsider the decision.
From the President's visit to Maavah. | Presidents Office
The residents of Laamu Maavah have expressed strong dissatisfaction following the government's decision to develop the atoll's second airport in Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo. In response, the community has launched a formal petition to be submitted to the President.
Following the announcement of this decision by the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure, general members of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) and several residents in Maavah are expressing significant concern.
According to the petition being prepared by the island's residents, Maavah is highlighted as the community facing the greatest hardships in accessing transportation and essential services, considering both its historical context and geographical location.
Residents of Maavah describe the government's decision to construct the airport in Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo as a "black day" that shattered their hopes and plunged the entire island into despair. They emphasize that more than any other development project, the community prioritizes airport services, viewing it as their greatest hope for ending the island's isolation.
The issue has significantly intensified the political climate on the island. The petition highlights that Maavah delivered the second-highest percentage of votes nationwide for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during the last presidential election. Residents further emphasized that their primary motivation for actively promoting the government was the expectation of the promised airport project.
Following this government decision, community members have been expressing strong criticism and outrage across local social media groups. Noting that the situation has caused significant political turmoil within the island, the petition collectively states that this move is a profound betrayal of the trust they had placed in the government.
The residents of Maavah are currently preparing to submit a formal petition to the President's Office. The primary objective of this petition is to urge the government to review its decision regarding the airport construction project and to ensure that the final outcome aligns with the sentiments and concerns of the Maavah community.
While an airport is already operational in Kadhdhoo, the development of a second airport in Laamu Atoll remains a key pledge of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The President has reaffirmed on several occasions that a specific location for the new airport will be finalized shortly to fulfill this commitment.
The government has announced a new airport project at a time when numerous initiatives launched by both the previous and current administrations have come to a standstill. Notably, several ongoing airport development projects across various islands have also stalled due to various reasons.
