Former Maldivian Democratic Party chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has described the present presidential term as the period of the most severe economic and social damage in recent Maldivian history.
Speaking at a campaign event in Haa Alif Dhidhdhoo, Fayyaz said the economy had effectively regressed by 20 to 30 years and that the effects would become clearer in the months and years ahead. He is seeking the MDP nomination for the next presidential election.
Fayyaz linked the setbacks to what he called the absence of restraints on the use of state power. He referred to the party’s “Big Change” proposals, which he said were designed to stop any leader from treating the country as personal property and to ensure constitutional amendments cannot be made against public will. He added that whoever is elected must remain a servant of the people.
No official government response to the remarks has been reported. The comments form part of an intensifying opposition critique ahead of internal party contests.