Loan repayment is the most significant development project of this administration: Mayor Athif
Kulhudhuffushi City Mayor Mohamed Athif has accused the government of misleading the public by characterizing debt repayment as a developmental achievement. Criticizing the administration's fiscal management, the Mayor noted that instead of allocating funds for specific island projects, the budget now features lump-sum figures that allow the government to spend at its discretion. He further highlighted the concerning cycle of taking out new loans to settle existing debts.
Mayor of Kulhudhuffushi City, Mohamed Athif. | MDP Kulhudhuffushi city
The Mayor of Kulhudhuffushi City, Mohamed Athif, has stated that the most significant "development project" demonstrated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration thus far is the repayment of loans.
Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Fashaairu" program, Mayor Athif stated that as long as a government or a company remains operational, loans are an inherent reality and must be repaid. However, he noted that the current administration is portraying debt repayment as if it were a major development project.
The only major development project the government highlights is the claim that the Maldives is in debt and that they are currently repaying loans. However, whether it is a government or a corporation, debt is a constant reality as long as the entity is operational, and it is an obligation that must be met.Mayor of Kulhudhuffushi City, Mohamed Athif
Athif further alleged that the government is engaging in deception by framing loan repayments as major development projects. He noted that, more often than not, the government appears to be taking out new loans immediately after settling existing ones.
Furthermore, while discussing the state budget, the Mayor stated that President Muizzu’s administration lacked the courage to list individual projects for islands in the budget book. Athif further noted that instead of specific allocations, the budget consists of bulk figures, allowing the government to spend funds at its own discretion.
Mayor Athif's remarks come at a time when senior government officials are reportedly prioritizing national economic recovery and debt restructuring efforts.
