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Dr. Muizzu affirms equitable opportunities for all

Mohamed Rehan
17 August 2023, MVT 11:01
PPM/PNC candidate Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at Haa Alifu atoll Ihavandhoo; meeting the island's locals-- Photo: PPM
Mohamed Rehan
17 August 2023, MVT 11:01

People's National Congress (PNC) candidate and current Malé City Mayor, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to provide equal opportunities to all residential islands without any form of discrimination.

Dr. Muizzu said that his government will provide opportunities to the islands regardless of their population size during his campaign visit in Haa Alifu atoll Ihavandhoo.

The Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and PNC coalition’s candidate began his presidential campaign last week. Dr. Muizzu, his running mate and Faresmaathoda MP Hussain Mohamed Latheef along the coalition’s leadership began the campaign trip from the upper-northern atolls of Haa Alifu and Haa Dhaalu.

Speaking at Ihavandhoo, Dr. Muizzu said, "We must ensure that essential facilities are provided to everyone, regardless of the island's population—whether it's 100, 200, 3,000, 4,000, or 10,000. Equitable opportunities should be accessible to all. The government's responsibility is to support people sustain their livelihoods," said Dr. Muizzu.

Besides the supporters from Ihavandhoo, which has a population of roughly 4,000, the coalition’s supporters from Haa Alifu atoll Maarandhoo, Molhadhoo and other smaller communities attended Monday evening’s campaign rally. Dr. Muizzu had spoken to the attendees assuring that these islands will not be overlooked.

“I would like to assure you that we will fulfill your needs, your hopes with utmost sincerity and care, and we will work hard to achieve it for you,” Dr. Muizzu said.

Dr. Muizzu emphasized that despite Molhadhoo's smaller population, it remains home to Maldivian citizens who deserve equal opportunities, just as residents of other larger communities.

The PPM/PNC coalition candidate further said it was the government’s responsibility to plan the development of smaller islands same as the larger islands, including strengthening the economy and increasing the government’s revenue.

"Our debt is significantly high, and the current government is responsible for it. They said that they would not acquire loans, yet they have taken an unprecedented amount, which has severely impacted our economy," Dr. Muizzu stated.

Dr. Muizzu, who was the housing minister during both Mohamed Waheed and Abdulla Yameen’s adminsitration, said he will establish a comprehensive state loan repayment system under his presidency.

"The state is facing significant loan repayments in 2025 and 2026. We are fortunate to have economic experts on our team, and we will rely on their insights and skills to address this issue and safeguard our economy," Dr. Muizzu stated.

The PPM/PNC candidate further said it was important for the state to seek ways to increase the income of the citizens.

"The government's effectiveness is compromised unless we enhance public income. I firmly believe that prioritizing economic growth and the public's well-being, ensuring housing and employment opportunities, is essential for boosting their income," Dr. Muizzu said.

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