Hinnavaru will not be sidelined regardless of political ideology: President

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that his government aims to realize the long-standing aspirations of Hinnavaru residents by fulfilling their expectations.

President Muizzu, who arrived in Hinnavaru as the second destination of his visit to Lhaviyani atoll yesterday, remarked that the people's long-standing aspirations for development have yet to be fulfilled.

The reason for this, he said, was the portrayal of Hinnavaru as the property of specific individuals who held "full control" over the island.

President Muizzu said that while that had been the case, he emphasized that it was not his leadership style to endorse such practices.

"Regardless of political ideologies, all Maldivians are equal to me. The political views of an individual are not important. Every citizen holds significance, whether they come from a large or small island," he stated.

"I will address all the issues that have yet to materialize and, hopefully, ensure that Hinnavaru receives its rightful due," he said.

Hinnavaru is the birthplace of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The constituency is currently represented by Jeehan Mahmood, a close relative of the former President. President Solih served as the Member of Parliament for Hinnavaru constituency for several years until assuming the Presidency in November 2018.

Speaking in Hinnavaru, President Muizzu said that development projects in many islands, including Hinnavaru, were initiated during President Solih's administration, but progress on these had not been observed. He said that this delay was due to the previous government's failure to settle outstanding bills, and said that the current government is actively addressing these backlogs.

The President stated that the total outstanding amount in dues is approximately MVR 9 billion, with a significant portion already settled by the current government. He assured that work is resuming as the outstanding bills are being paid.

The President assured that he would resolve the issue of the Hinnavaru housing project, which has been at a standstill due to non-payment of bills.

President Muizzu said that utility services, including water and electricity, will be provided, and infrastructure will be established in the reclaimed land as a permanent solution to the housing issue faced on the island. He further added that following the reclamation of land in islands including Hinnavaru, a project to establish facilities in these areas will be initiated this year.