Maldives is heading towards a major setback under the current Government, and the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) remains the only party capable of delivering good governance and success to the people, MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed has said.

Speaking at the opening of the party’s fifth congress tonight, Nasheed said the foundations for the country’s modern development and social security were laid during MDP-led governments.

He highlighted the introduction of a tax system that increased State revenue from MVR 7 billion to MVR 40 billion, alongside initiatives such as benefits for elderly people and orphans, improved transport links between islands, the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, free first-degree education and the introduction of a minimum wage.

Nasheed said the MDP remained committed to improving the lives of Maldivians. He also criticised the current PNC-led Government, saying the country was heading in an unsafe direction and that a change of government was necessary.

He further stressed the importance of strengthening relations with neighbouring countries to safeguard the Maldives’ security and stability. Nasheed said maintaining close ties with India was in the Maldives’ national interest, given the country’s geographical location, and should not be viewed as an affront to any other country.