President Muizzu's first year lacks focus, direction: Solih

The first year of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s government has been has been devoid focus or direction, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (Ibu) has said.

In an interview with Raajje TV, Solih stated that while today marks one year of the current administration, the people have been left in disappointment and fear.

Solih said that upon taking office, President Muizzu began working against the press. By the end of his first year, legal efforts to bring journalism under government control has begun, he said.

Solih referred to the bill introduced by Independent Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannaan Aboobakuru, which stipulates fining journalists and media outlets in addition to revoking their licenses.

"This [bill] states that the majority of appointments to the journalism committee will be made by the President. Four out of seven members will be appointed by him, and they are working to control the entire media," Solih said on Raajje TV's "Fashaairu" programme.

He said that the commission would be granted the power to decide how the media operates.

Solih added that even though the bill is introduced by an independent member, it could still be viewed as a change proposed by the government. He said that if a media outlet is investigated within the powers of the commission, it could be suspended during the investigation period.

"This is one of the most dangerous steps that can be taken in a democracy," he said.

While Solih criticized the bill, MDP majority parliament passed the Evidence Act, which also raised concerns among journalists during his tenure.

According to Article 136 of the Act, the court can compel journalists to disclose their sources in cases related to terrorism and national security. Journalists have repeatedly called for amendments to this article, but it has not been changed.

Speaking about the fisheries industry, Solih stated that the past year has been the worst in the history of Maldives. The promises made to fishermen have not been fulfilled, he said.

"They promised to buy fish at a price higher than MVR 20, to make payments to fishermen within 48 hours of them weighing their catch, and to pay fishermen in dollars," Solih said.

He also criticized the tourism sector and taxi drivers' situation, and said that today, people have to plead for healthcare.

Solih said that for these reasons, the government's policies are disappointing, devoid of hope, and based on broken promises.

“With the way the government's policies are headed, I would say that this is a hopeless government, failing to live up to its promises and built upon many lies,” Solih said.

He said that if policies continue in this direction, the people will face difficult days under this government.