Haalu Kihineh?: Residents of Dh. Bandidhoo state that the only way to overcome the current challenges facing the Maldives is by changing the administration!

Residents of Dhaalu Atoll Bandidhoo have expressed deep concern over the rising cost of living, citing the continuous increase in commodity prices alongside escalating electricity and water utility bills.

Residents of Bandidhoo shared their grievances on RaajjeTV’s "Haalu Kihineh?" program. Speaking from the island, an elderly resident stated that he has never witnessed an administration that manipulates the public across the atolls to this extent. He alleged that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is reshaping public perception solely for personal gain. Claiming that the entire nation has been brought to ruin, he further delivered a direct message to the President.

I would first like to send a message to Muizzu. If you lash your raft together in a shallow lagoon with no depth, you will drift into countless reefs and be shattered. This means your downfall will come very soon.

A resident of Bandidhoo

Every resident of Bandidhoo interviewed expressed concerns over the rising costs of electricity, water, and essential goods. They further highlighted that electricity bills currently represent their most significant financial burden.

The most significant expense is the electricity bill; it is by far the largest cost. In some months, it reaches 6,000 Rufiyaa, and this month it has risen to 7,000 Rufiyaa. Although the house consists of three floors, only two are occupied. Despite only two floors being in use, the bill typically ranges between 3,000 and 4,000 Rufiyaa most months.

A resident of Bandidhoo

At the same time, the president and a member of the Bandidhoo Women's Development Committee (WDC) stated that they are unable to carry out any activities due to the constraints of an insufficient budget. They also expressed concern over the government's ongoing efforts to centralize powers previously held by local councils.

It is extremely challenging. The Women's Development Committee (WDC) operates on a very limited budget. While we plan numerous initiatives for the year, the lack of adequate funding makes it virtually impossible to execute them. Consequently, we conduct all our programs in collaboration with the Council.

Bandidhoo WDC President

Furthermore, a significant number of Bandidhoo residents who were dismissed from various government positions shared their experiences during interviews with the "Haalu Kihineh?" program. All affected individuals alleged they were informed that their continued employment was contingent upon joining the People's National Congress (PNC). One individual further noted that despite receiving an official letter confirming their permanent status, they were subsequently terminated after being told the letter had been issued in error.

Furthermore, a resident of Dhaalu Bandidhoo reported that the local pharmacy has been unable to establish regular operating hours due to having only one pharmacist on staff. According to the resident, the pharmacist is required to remain on call at all times, noting that no official working hours have been established for the facility.

In addition, residents of Bandidhoo have expressed their concerns over the stagnation of development projects on the island.

Six pipes have already been installed at the harbor in preparation for the land reclamation project. According to officials, that specific site has been designated as a base for staff accommodation and vehicle storage. The local council has allocated a 10,000-square-foot area for this purpose.

A resident of Bandidhoo

Residents of Bandidhoo have expressed frustration over the frequent shortages of even the most basic essential medicines, asserting that the situation will only improve with a change in government. Many residents who spoke from the island further stated that President Muizzu will fail to secure a second term in office.