There are reports that the Male' commercial port and two airports operated by state-owned enterprises will be privatised, former President Mohamed Nasheed has said.
In a post on social media X today (January 5), Nasheed said he was hearing about government plans for a comprehensive privatization programme, which includes Male' Port and two airports.
"I think it is better for the private sector to provide services. However, the contract should be awarded after a credible, tranparent bidding process," Nasheed wrote.
The two airports are likely to be Velana International Airport and Hanimaadhoo International Airport.
Speaking at a campaign event for opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s Ali Azim for the Male' city mayoral primary on Sunday night (January 4), Nasheed said it is a good decision to hand over Hanimaadhoo Airport to an Indian company.
"Now I am hearing that the government wants to give Hanimaadhoo airport operations to a successful Indian company. That is a very good decision. But it makes me laugh a little bit because of the things these people said to oppose this policy," Nasheed stated.
Last Friday, Nasheed said that the establishment of a regional airline and making Hanimaadhoo airport as the main hub for the airline would increase benefits for Maldivians and bring development to the north of the country.
Nasheed also said that the Velana International Airport is running with a huge debt which is paid by the people's money and said it should be done in a way that will bring prosperity to the people.
Hanimaadhoo and Velana airports are now operated by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). The Male' Commercial Port is maintained by Maldives Ports Limited (MPL). Both companies face corruption allegations.
