Dh. Meedhoo Residents Raise Concerns Over Rising Costs and Fishing Challenges

The general living conditions in Dh. Meedhoo have deteriorated significantly, with residents expressing growing concern over skyrocketing electricity bills, the rising cost of goods, and ongoing challenges in the fishing industry. Many locals now believe that the situation will not improve without a change in President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.

During an appearance on RaajjeTV’s "Haalu Kihineh?" program, many residents of the island expressed sharp criticism toward the current administration. Furthermore, they voiced their conviction that a change in government is necessary.

Residents of Meedhoo have expressed deep concern over stalled development projects, citing significant challenges in accessing essential services and healthcare. Many noted that they had high expectations for the island's progress following the inauguration of President Muizzu's administration.

However, they noted that contrary to expectations, development projects have stalled and the overall situation of the island is deteriorating in every respect.

Residents have noted that essential infrastructure projects, such as the installation of the drainage system, remain unfinished after several years, while work on the island's police station has come to a complete standstill. Many locals expressed that despite the distribution of jobs ahead of elections, there is no genuine sense of progress or well-being within the community. Furthermore, residents highlighted that the skyrocketing cost of goods and rising living expenses have led to a significant downturn for small businesses. This economic strain has pushed many into a state of financial instability, making it increasingly difficult to sustain their livelihoods.

From the "Haalu Kihineh?" program conducted in Dh. Meedhoo.

From the "Haalu Kihineh?" program conducted in Dh. Meedhoo.

Latheef, a resident of the island, stated that the country has never witnessed such a ruthless administration, noting that the situation has deteriorated significantly across all fronts.

He stated that discrimination is practiced even in the provision of Aasandha services, with benefits being distributed based on political affiliation.

From the "Haalu Kihineh?" program conducted in Dh. Meedhoo. | RaajjeMV

He highlighted that while his two children, who require therapy, are forced to live in rented accommodation in Male', they are also not receiving the disability allowance mandated by the government.

Furthermore, he strongly criticized the events that unfolded within the island during the local council elections.

This is the home island of the First Lady’s mother. If this island does not see development, then which island will? Yet, nothing has been achieved here. The election campaign, however, was managed thoroughly. They provided jobs to 67 people, so of course they would win the election. The entire Aasandha system was centered here. Every minister and every state-owned enterprise manager was stationed on this island. While they were here, they granted whatever was requested—whether it was cash, employment, or Aasandha medical coverage. Under such circumstances, it is no surprise they secured the seat.

Latheef

Furthermore, he stated that Road Development Corporation (RDC) continues to pay salaries to both local and expatriate staff despite them remaining idle. He also noted that several roads have been left in disrepair after being excavated for work.

A young fisherman, speaking on the challenges facing the industry, noted that while yellowfin tuna prices ranged between MVR 90 and MVR 100 per kilogram under previous administrations, rates have now plummeted to between MVR 35 and MVR 40. He further highlighted that despite the completion of the MIFCO ice plant, ice remains unavailable on most days, and expressed concern over the significantly higher fuel prices on his island compared to neighboring areas.

From the "Haalu Kihineh?" program conducted in Dh. Meedhoo. | RaajjeMV

However, the cost of goods continues to skyrocket. What will be left for me?

A young fisherman

Regarding the issue of soaring electricity bills, an elderly local woman noted that her monthly charges, which previously averaged around 1,500 MVR, have now surged to between 3,000 and 4,000 MVR. She emphasized that despite no changes in her household's electricity consumption or the addition of new appliances, the bills continue to rise excessively.

This administration is nothing but a source of suffering, loss, and destruction for us. Especially with the current situation regarding electricity.

A resident of the island.

An elderly fisherman, highlighting the threats posed by sharks and the resulting financial strain on the industry, described his current living situation as increasingly unsustainable. He noted that while the cost of living has skyrocketed, the surge in shark interference has made it nearly impossible to secure a catch. He further emphasized that whether engaging in reef fishing, ocean trolling, or yellowfin tuna fishing, the shark population continues to cause significant losses. He pointed out that despite these challenges, the government has yet to grant the necessary permissions or provide an adequate solution to address the issue.

Furthermore, residents highlighted significant challenges in accessing essential medical care, noting that they are currently forced to rely on private pharmacies to obtain medication. They also expressed concerns over lengthy wait times for diagnostic services, reporting that patients must wait up to 17 days for an MRI scan.

A resident expressing concerns over the lack of fairness in the allocation of residential land plots stated that despite some families having many children, they were not granted any land.

From the "Haalu Kihineh?" program conducted in Dh. Meedhoo.

From the "Haalu Kihineh?" program conducted in Dh. Meedhoo.

Furthermore, during the program, while the former President of the Meedhoo Council, Mohamed Shahid, was speaking regarding the local council elections and the current state of the island, a group of individuals affiliated with the PNC gathered at the scene, creating a disturbance and attempting to incite violence.

Shahid remarked that the conduct of the election could be likened to a childhood game where the child who owns the ball dictates all the rules, suggesting that the process was controlled entirely by a single party.

Former President of the Meedhoo Council, Mohamed Shahid, gives an interview to the "Haalu Kihineh?" program. | RaajjeMV

Shahid noted that despite the government's extensive efforts to secure the Meedhoo Council Presidency in the election held on April 4, he won the seat through the trust placed in him by the people. He further highlighted his track record of spearheading development projects on the island, noting that he holds a Master’s degree in Law and specializes in Public-Private Partnerships.

However, Shahid stated that once the Elections Commission announced the permanent results, the government candidate filed a case in the High Court. He explained that during the High Court proceedings, efforts were made to validate several ballots that both the Elections Commission and the presiding officer had initially deemed invalid. Shahid further detailed how ballots containing additional markings—in violation of Article 170 of the Constitution—were validated, ultimately leading to the requirement for a fresh election.

Supporters of the People's National Congress (PNC) disrupted the filming of the "Haalu Kihineh?" program in Meedhoo, gathering at the location. | RaajjeMV

While Shahid was speaking, a group of PNC supporters gathered at the scene, shouting and using profane language. The interview had to be cut short after the group also attempted to incite violence.