Ismail Zariyand
Guest Writer
4 articles
ColumnNavigating the Maldives' 2026 Fiscal Storm
The Maldives faces a critical fiscal outlook in 2026 due to record debt repayments and rising expenditures despite increased revenue. High domestic borrowing and a widening deficit create significant financing pressure. The government may need major budget adjustments to manage these growing financial obligations.
ColumnThe Pension Fund Is Not the Government’s Wallet
The Maldives Pension Administration Office has begun a MVR 2.4 billion bond transaction that effectively transfers funds to the state treasury via the central bank. While technically legal, critics argue the maneuver exploits legal loopholes to use pension assets for government spending, bypassing the spirit of fiscal responsibility laws.
ColumnThe land we cannot buy back
To address a debt crisis and fund stalled housing projects, the Maldives government is selling long-term residency to wealthy foreigners. This "Pearl Residency" program offers land in reclaimed areas like Ras Malé to attract foreign currency. Critics warn this move risks national sovereignty and the permanent loss of local property.
