Government officials have zero understanding of how to navigate processes required to secure development assistance: Shahid

Former Foreign Minister and former President of the MDP, Abdulla Shahid, has stated that the current administration's understanding of securing foreign aid for national development is "zero." He further asserted that the MDP will return to power to bring development and renewed hope to the people.

Addressing the residents of K. Guraidhoo on Saturday during a visit by his "Shahid 2028" campaign team, Abdulla Shahid stated that it is now evident that reformist ideologies and progressive thought cannot be suppressed in the Maldives. He noted that during his visits to various islands, he has witnessed widespread despair and hopelessness among the public. Shahid emphasized that citizens are now resoundingly rejecting the PNC administration and President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, further alleging that the current government has brought the nation to its knees and devastated the livelihoods of the people.

Criticizing the government's repeated claims regarding the repayment of a $50 million loan to India, Shahid clarified that this sum was part of a $200 million concessional loan secured in 2020 during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s administration, while he served as Foreign Minister. Shahid noted that the facility is categorized as a "concessional loan" because the Indian government covers the interest payments. He further remarked that the current administration appears to be unaware of these specific terms.

Shahid stated that this administration rose to power by hurling insults at India, dragging effigies of the country’s Prime Minister through the streets, and spearheading the 'India Out' campaign.

They rose to power on the back of the "India Out" campaign, parading effigies of the Indian Prime Minister through the streets of Malé. Driven by that same bravado and defiance, they initially settled a $50 million payment. At the time, they refused to even approach the Indian government to request a debt rollover. They maintained that stance simply because they believed they were far more powerful than they actually were.

Abdulla Shahid

Shahid stated that the government is blatantly lying by claiming that this payment had been previously scheduled for disbursement.

Shahid further stated that the government's foreign policy has failed, leaving the Maldives without any international assistance. However, he assured that world leaders recognize his standing and pledged to secure the necessary aid and development funding for the people once again.

Furthermore, Shahid expressed his regret that foreign investor confidence in the Maldives has plummeted to zero. He pledged that an MDP government would restore the protection, security, and trust essential for the tourism industry.