Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) has expressed concern because the proposed state budget does contain details of measures to be taken to reduce government expenditure in 2026.
Speaking during the budget debate in the People's Majlis, Kudu noted that the total debt stood at MVR 148.9 billion at the end of the second quarter this year. But he said this does not include loans taken by state-owned enterprises.
“President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is in power with the full majority of this honorable parliament, he has the power to do whatever he wants whenever he wants, if he wants to cut state expenditure, he can do that,” the MP said.
He expressed concern over the high cost of various events and meetings, noting that government officials took nine flights to the opening of the Hanimaadhoo International Airport.
Kudu also described the expenditure on independent institutions that do not do enough work as waste, while spending millions for large projects in islands with small populations.
“This government talked about reforming the wasteful subsidies, announced the abolition of double pension rules, promised to reform Aasandha and made many other promises to reduce expenditure,” Kudu said.
"At the last minute, everything turned around and we didn't see anything done to cut costs. Mr. Speaker, we are subsidizing everything and have now started subsidizing the dollar as well," he added.
Kudu said the tourism industry is a treasure for the Maldivian economy, but the government is not working to develop the industry. He also stressed that the fishing industry was facing risks as well.
