Shahid launches presidential primary campaign pledge to reduce atoll dependence on Malé

Former President of the MDP, Abdulla Shahid, has announced "Prosperous Maldives" as his official campaign slogan for the party's upcoming presidential primary.

Speaking at the "Shahid 2028" rally held in Kulhudhuffushi City on Saturday night, Shahid unveiled "Prosperous Maldives" as his official campaign slogan. He pledged to work towards ensuring that all Maldivian citizens achieve self-sufficiency and prosperity in every aspect of their lives, providing his full assurance to the public.

Shahid stated that he would transform the nation’s current state of despair, characterized by overwhelming debt, stagnation, and uncertainty. He pledged to rescue the people from a debt trap that has left them financially drained and hopeless, promising to build a self-sufficient Maldives where every citizen can stand on their own feet.

I will establish a nation where the northern and southern regions of the Maldives can finally thrive independently, without remaining perpetually reliant on the capital, Malé City, for every essential service. I will facilitate billions in development. In this regard, I assure you that under my administration, the bunkering services launched by the current government in Ihavandhippolhu—which currently involve nothing more than transporting water in plastic tanks from Kulhudhuffushi across the Gallandhoo Channel—will be developed into a legitimate, world-class industry as originally intended. What this government is currently doing is not bunkering; it is a mockery. They are turning a serious economic sector into a farce.

Abdulla Shahid

Shahid stated that during his administration, he would prove that bunkering is not as simple as child's play. He further emphasized that it is a globally integrated industry that can only be successfully managed by those with the necessary expertise.

Furthermore, Shahid gave his assurance that the city's port would be transformed into a robust and genuinely profitable facility owned by its people. He further stated that the port would be developed into an economic gateway designed to directly increase the income of local citizens.

Shahid stated that under his administration, the healthcare system would be organized to ensure citizens no longer have to endure undue hardships to access services. In this regard, Shahid gave his assurance that a system would be established to ensure that tertiary hospitals, atoll hospitals, and health centers all meet mandatory minimum standards.

Addressing the gathering, Shahid pledged to fully leverage his extensive experience and international diplomatic ties to advance the nation. He vowed to ensure the country achieves self-sufficiency, where citizens no longer face shortages of essential medicines, staple foods, or fuel.