Former Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer said last night that the Maldivian people have reached an unprecedented level of poverty.
Speaking at a rally held by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Ameer noted that while various administrations have faced different challenges, the country has never encountered a government under which the populace has become this impoverished.
"If you look closely, whether it was during the MDP government amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, or during President Nasheed’s 2008 administration during the global financial crisis, or even under previous governments—the Maldivian people and businesses have never been as poor as they are now," Ameer said.
Ameer claimed that since this administration took office, goods that citizens previously purchased for MVR 10,000 now cost MVR 20,000. He further stated that compared to 2023, the average Maldivian citizen has become approximately 30 to 40 percent poorer.
"Based on my research, when compared to 2023, every citizen has become roughly 30 to 40 percent poorer. This is no small matter," he added.
Furthermore, highlighting the bankruptcy of local businesses, Ameer stated that the public is suffering. He accused the government of "reaching into the pockets of the people" and impoverishing everyone.
Statistics from the Maldives Bureau of Statistics show that the price of essential goods in July this year rose by 6.07 percent compared to July last year.
Food prices increased by 5.89 percent last month compared to the same period last year. The next highest increase was seen in canned and bottled beverages, which rose by 5.75 percent compared to July last year.
Despite widespread public outcry over the skyrocketing cost of living and inflation, Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has attempted to downplay the situation through a series of TikTok videos. However, these videos have drawn significant public criticism.
