Maldives' economy and healthcare system have completely collapsed: Shahid
5 އޮކްޓޯބަރު 2026 | ހޯމަ 08:32Speaking at the closing ceremony of the MDP Congress, Abdulla Shahid stated that the government's incompetence has plunged the economy and businesses into a state of deep distress. He called for the empowerment of the decentralization system and the disclosure of secret agreements, while assuring the public that the party would rescue the nation from its current predicament.
The former President of the MDP, Abdulla Shahid. | MDP Secretariat
The former President of the MDP, Abdulla Shahid, has stated that the Maldives' economy, healthcare system, and housing sector, along with employment opportunities, have completely collapsed and reached a breaking point.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) 5th Congress, Shahid stated that the MDP is the only political party that has brought positive transformation to the nation, enhanced the standard of living for its citizens, and increased the financial prosperity of the Maldivian people.
Shahid stated that the tourism industry and small to medium-sized enterprises are currently in a state of deep distress. He noted that major investments have been left in limbo due to tax traps and new foreign exchange regulations, while Maldivian students studying abroad have reached a point where they may be forced to discontinue their education. Furthermore, Shahid accused the government of stifling the livelihoods of young entrepreneurs who utilize modern technology in their local production and businesses.
Shahid highlighted that the development of the Maldives is intrinsically linked to the decentralization system and its empowerment. He stated that national progress cannot be achieved by confining the economy solely to the capital, Malé, and urged the government to prioritize funding for local councils. Furthermore, Shahid called for an increase in the salaries and allowances of council members and Women's Development Committee (WDC) members.
Speaking on the necessary constitutional amendments, Shahid stated that the MDP Congress has decided to introduce significant positive reforms following public consultations. He further noted that this decision demonstrates the party's foresight and institutional maturity.
Highlighting the significance of international relations and diplomacy, Shahid asserted that the Fushidhiggaru Falhu agreement was deceptive from its inception and shrouded in secrecy. He called for transparency, urging that agreements made with foreign companies should not be kept hidden from the public. Furthermore, Shahid noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the MDP administration managed the country in a way that served as a global model. He emphasized that with India's assistance, the government successfully navigated the crisis, ensuring that the people did not face shortages of food or essential medicine.
Shahid stated that the Maldives requires a compassionate and just administration—one where citizens are not forced to beg for medical assistance, is free from the burden of debt, and ensures access to housing and employment opportunities. Characterizing the current administration as incompetent and dishonest, he accused the government of deceiving the public. Shahid further asserted that they would defeat the government in the future to rescue the people from this predicament.
