People want to see projects progressing: Faisal

Nov 23, 2025, 3:47 AM
Faisal Naseem in Fuvahmulah. -- Photo: Mohamed Sharuhaan

Faisal Naseem in Fuvahmulah. -- Photo: Mohamed Sharuhaan

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has said that the people want to see development projects being implemented and completed rather than signing agreements and laying foundation stones.

Speaking to the media during a visit to Fuvahmulah city for the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) campaign of the upcoming local council elections, Faisal said the people want to see projects being carried out.

"Laying the foundation stone. Signing the agreement. This is not what the people want. The people want the road to be paved. The people want the shore protection work to be completed," Faisal stated.

Shore protection and road construction are the two biggest projects implemented by the previous government in Fuvahmulah. It was the largest shore protection project carried out in the Maldives.

Faisal told reporters that about 32 km of roads in Fuvahmulah were developed during the MDP administration. But he noted that the second phase of the project has been stalled for the past two years since the new government came to power.

"I just want to point out that we did not stop working even during the most difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even then, the government was carrying out works across the country. This project went ahead," he said.

Faisal further stressed that the MDP government worked to improve the services of the hospital in Fuvahmulah.

These include starting dental treatment and dialysis services, as well as ordering the CT scan machine that was recently inaugurated by President Mohamed Muizzu.

Earlier this month, Muizzu travelled to Fuvahmulah and handed over 11 projects and laid the foundation stone of five projects.

Out of the 11 projects, all but three projects were awarded to private companies. Practical work has not begun in the projects where foundation stone was laid.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Suspect arrested for repeated public nuisance escapes facility

Ahmed Fairish, a man arrested for public nuisance and harassment, has escaped from a drug treatment facility in Himmafushi. He was transferred there under police supervision following his recent arrest on October 17. Authorities are currently searching for the suspect, who has a history of criminal behavior and making death threats.

PNC secures both seats in election for LGA board

The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) won both seats in the election for the Local Government Authority board. PNC candidates Ali Ahmed and Maryam Zeena defeated their MDP rivals to represent local councils and Women’s Development Committees. The election occurred alongside the unopposed appointment of Kulhudhuffushi Mayor Mohamed Athif.

"MDP will end Rasmale' deal if it goes without consultation"

MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail warned that a future MDP government will terminate the Rasmalé project if it proceeds without public consultation. He opposes granting land to UAE’s Eagle Hills indefinitely, citing concerns over national sovereignty and the lack of acquisition costs. Fayyaz urged President Muizzu to allow for public debate.

Milestone as Thilamale Bridge connects Villimale and Gulhifalhu

The Thilamale Bridge has reached a major milestone by physically connecting Villimale and Gulhifalhu, creating a continuous link from Male'. Developed by Afcons Infrastructure, the project is now slated for completion in September 2026. Construction progressed through multiple phases despite political disputes over the project's timeline.

Sukuk or bond issue listed in budget for 2027

The government plans to issue a $175 million international bond or sukuk in 2027 to manage foreign debt, part of a $675 million three-year borrowing strategy. Despite past failures to enter the market and a "junk" credit rating, officials hope this move will ease financial pressure following a major reserve drawdown for previous repayments.

Government to deploy an AI-powered smart traffic system in Male'

The Maldives government has included an AI-powered "Smart Traffic Enforcement System" in next year’s budget to tackle congestion in Malé. Part of the "Maldives 2.0" policy, the initiative aims to modernize traffic monitoring through digitalization. The plan also includes a new data center and digital ID system to improve public services.

"President does not have authority to allow non-Muslim residency"

Former Chief Justice Dr. Ahmed Abdulla Didi argues that the President lacks the constitutional authority to grant long-term residency to non-Muslims in Rasmalé. He asserts that such sovereign power belongs solely to the people. Didi also criticized Jamiyyathul Salaf for supporting the government's plan under specific conditions.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox