MDP launches manifesto; includes clearing student loans

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) launched its campaign manifesto for this year’s presidential election on Monday evening, August 7.

The manifesto was officially launched by MDP candidate and current president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih during a ceremony held on Monday evening at Dhaaly atoll Kudahuvadhoo during his campaign visit. MDP has formed its manifesto on five main policies which are;

1. Joyous living

2. Peaceful community

3. New generation of the youth

4. Economic transformation

5. Just Governance

Out of the manifesto policies, President Solih launched the first policy ‘Joyous living’ on Monday evening.

Dr. Aishath Shafeena, a psychologist, delivered the presentation of the policy. She said that the policies were developed with the input of the relevant authorities, experts, and the public.

“To formulate our policies, we had visited all the islands in the Maldives to gather information and gain input and feedback from the public, we factored in the needs and pleas of the public,” Shafeena said.

She added that the ‘Joyous living’ policy consists of three major components which are; healthy and unified community, productive and sustainable generations, and harmonious people.

Shafeena said that the policies include the establishment of specific guidelines to forgive student loans for individuals facing challenges in repaying them.

"The regulations will be revised to prolong the grace period for student loans, and repayment will commence once we ensure the students secure employment."

Shafeena further said that the Free Degree program will be amended to allow free education starting from Certificate Level 1 and extending up to bachelor's degree level.

Highlights of the Policy;

- Establishing a National Bio-medical Center

- Transportation of samples via drones

- Regulating the fitness industry according to international standards

- Launch motorbike paramedics

- Enforce drug rehabilitation, develop recovery villages in three regions of the Maldives

- Establishing a dedicated bank for housing finances

- Regulation of the real estate market

- Introduction of council housing

- Controlling Hajj and Umrah rates, implementing a new law on Zakat

- Seeking financial support from BBC to develop content to improve Dhivehi language

- Expunging student loans based on specific regulations

According to MDP the manifesto will be made available on the party's official website.