MDP condemns closure of Hoarafushi bottling plant and staff layoffs

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has raised concerns over the suspension of a water bottling plant project in Haa Alif Hoarafushi and the dismissal of its employees.

In a statement issued last night, MDP strongly condemned the halting of the project and the termination of a significant number of workers. The plant, a joint venture between Hoarafushi Council and state utility company Fenaka Corporation, was developed under the Indian government’s High Impact Community Development Project and was due to begin operations next month.

“However, we are concerned that the plant has been suspended contrary to the assurance given by Fenaka Corporation,” the party said.

MDP said that such community-based projects are vital to boosting local economies and creating jobs. MDP said that suspending the plant would severely disadvantage the people of Hoarafushi, especially at a time when the island was expecting to benefit from new economic opportunities.

The statement accused the government of politically motivated interference in council-led initiatives and warned that halting development projects for political reasons could have long-lasting impacts on families and communities.

The party called on the government to reinstate the dismissed employees and resume work on the bottling plant without delay.