Former Maldivian Democratic Party chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has outlined a goal of creating 10,000 entrepreneurs as the main economic project of a future administration under his leadership.
Speaking at a workshop in Addu City, Fayyaz said the initiative would liberate citizens from dependence on government or party-linked employment, which he described as vulnerable to political changes. He invited public input on how to identify economic opportunities on every island and allocate budget support for people who want to work independently.
Fayyaz, who is seeking the MDP presidential nomination, contrasted this approach with large infrastructure projects. He said government jobs typically last only for the duration of an administration and can be lost if an employee disagrees with the government of the day.
He is currently campaigning in Addu City, visiting islands and conducting door-to-door activities to build support ahead of the party primary.
The proposal comes amid ongoing debate over economic diversification and the sustainability of public-sector employment in the Maldives.