MDP congratulates PNC, vows to hold the govt accountable

Apr 21, 2024, 6:51 PM
MDP's leadership. -- Photo: Iyad Abdul Wahhab/ Adhahdu

MDP's leadership. -- Photo: Iyad Abdul Wahhab/ Adhahdu

The leadership of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has congratulated the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) for the success in Sunday's parliamentary elections.

According to the provisional results, the PNC has secured a large majority. The PNC is expected to win 65 seats while the MDP is expected to win about 15 seats.

In a post on X, MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail congratulated PNC and thanked everyone who worked in the MDP campaign.

"Whilst today's result is disappointing this is a moment to reaffirm our commitment and work even closer with our communities," the former Economic minister said.

"MDP’s MPs will be ready to work with the government for the betterment of our democratic values and to hold it accountable as responsible opposition," he added.

Meanwhile, MDP's President and former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said the party's MPs "will uphold the responsibility entrusted to you with utmost determination."

Fayyaz and Shahid were cabinet ministers during the MDP government from 2018 to 2023. MDP won a supermajority with 65 seats in the 2019 parliamentary election.

However, the party lost the last year's presidential election and today's parliamentary elections to the coalition of Progressive Party of Maldives-People's National Congress (PPM-PNC).

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Priority should be sale of assets to generate immediate liquidity

Former President Mohamed Nasheed urged the Maldives to prioritize selling assets for immediate liquidity rather than long-term projects like the $20 billion Rasmalé development. He argued the UAE-backed waterfront deal will not provide the urgent cash flow needed to resolve the nation's current financial crisis.

Police seek charges against six men for assaulting officers

Maldives Police are seeking charges against six men for assaulting officers during a drug search in Maafushi. Five suspects remain in custody, while one was released by the court. Authorities have also appealed the release of a seventh individual involved in the August incident.

No tax concessions for UAE developer in Rasmale' project

The Maldives government awarded the $20 billion Rasmalé project to UAE developer Eagle Hills without tax concessions or exemptions. All business activities will follow national tax laws, with payments processed through local banks. The state expects over $11 billion in revenue from sales fees and commercial revenue sharing.

No details on size and value of land given to Dubai company

The Maldives government signed a $20 billion deal with Dubai’s Eagle Hills to develop a massive integrated zone in Rasmalé. While the project promises 54,000 jobs and housing, officials have withheld specific details regarding the land size, valuation, and lease terms. The area is expected to operate as a special economic township.

Rasmale' investor to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumale'

The Maldivian government has partnered with UAE-based Eagle Hills to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé using a contractor financing model. This agreement follows a massive $20 billion deal for the firm to develop Rasmalé. The project will feature luxury residences and a world-class marina without impacting existing housing plans.

AMFA concludes first Junior Lifeguard Program

The Australia Maldives Friendship Association successfully completed its first Junior Lifeguard Program pilot in Thulusdhoo and Fuvahmulah. The initiative trained youth in water safety and rescue skills to enhance maritime security. AMFA plans to expand the program across the Maldives by 2027 through partnerships with local councils.

Project to build international bowling arena in Hulhumale'

A private company has been awarded a MVR 20 million project to build the Maldives' first international-standard bowling arena in Hulhumale'. The two-story facility aims to host global competitions, though the direct award process lacks an official statement. This project is part of a broader plan to develop world-class sports infrastructure.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox