Nazim: economic transformation, not government overturn

Presidential candidate and Dhangethi MP Mohamed Nazim has said that his work has not been about overturning governments, but rather for the nation.

Speaking at the Sangu TV Presidential Debate, Nazim said that the work he did during the time of former president Mohamed Nasheed and former president Abdulla Yameen were national endeavors.

He said that while leaders may make such accusations out of their own insecurities, he has never attempted to overthrow any government.

"I am not someone who has the mindset of overturning a government. I am a person who works for progress and development," said Nazim.

Nazim said his purpose for contesting in the presidential elections this year is to bring about an economic revolution to the Maldives.

He said that in order to achieve these goals, he would put an end to Maldivians having to beg for medical treatments, remove foreign soldiers from the country, facilitate easier employment for youth, and provide housing.

Nazim said that he will also provide free education to Maldivians and ensure they can lead comfortable lives.

"I will empower Maldivians to reach the brighter future that they want," said Nazim.

According to Nazim, his foreign policy will prioritize the interests of Maldivians and will not overly depend on any single country. He added that he has plans to establish strong relations with all countries.

"I will collaborate with anyone who will benefit Maldivians. I will ensure that Maldivians who advocate for the environment on behalf of small nations become environmental champions who are indispensable and protect the rights of the people," said Nazim.

Nazim said he was the person who solved the GMR issue and he is also the one who can remove Indian soldiers from the Maldives.

Nazim highlighted that the Maldives requires search and rescue helicopters, and the agreement made with India about the helicopters stipulates that Indian soldiers have to return to their own country after training Maldivians. He highlighted out that the current government had failed to do this.

According to Nazim, the economic revolution he plans to bring to the Maldives will restructure debt and create new economic activity in the country. He said that airports and resort development will be completed within two years, thereby increasing their benefits. He said major developments will be achieved in tourism, fisheries, as well as technology and IT sectors.

Nazim said the housing issues will also be addressed by improving the economy.

Nazim said that he will establish urban centers in two regions of the country and bring a solution to the housing problem. He highlighted that instead of taking away flats and land plots already given to the people, he will provide assistance to develop the flats and houses on the land.