The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has vowed to pursue “direct action” to prevent the Mohamed Muizzu administration from implementing policies it considers harmful to the people and to put the country back on the right track. In a recent National Council meeting, MDP members expressed grave concerns over the administration’s policies.
The Muizzu administration’s actions have sparked concern within opposition circles and among the wider public, particularly due to the dismissal of staff from state-owned companies without clear justification. The administration has also faced criticism for suspending infrastructure projects initiated by the previous MDP-led government.
At a meeting on Wednesday, MDP National Council members highlighted the stark contrast between President Muizzu’s campaign promises and the current reality. They pointed out that the administration’s refusal to compensate private companies for completed work and projects directly contradicts the commitments made during the election campaign.
Anwar Ibrahim, Thimarafushi constituency president on the MDP National Council, was blunt in his criticism: “If the Muizzu administration fails to deliver on its electoral promises, we must speak out.” Ibrahim voiced concern over the dismissal of party-affiliated staff, emphasising that the administration is undermining the very workforce that supported them.
Moosa Ali Manik, MDP National Council president for the Maduvvari constituency, disclosed that more than 500 staff members at the Road Development Corporation (RDC) are at risk of imminent dismissal. Manik, a former RDC managing director under the Ibrahim Mohamed Solih administration, expressed deep concern over the administration’s actions.
“The Muizzu administration is running this country into the ground. It falls upon the MDP to take direct action,” Manik stated. He further described the situation as critical, revealing that over 730 employees at the state-owned FENAKA Corporation are set to receive dismissal notices by the end of August.
Fayyaz Ismail, opposition leader and chairperson of the MDP, reminded the public of President Muizzu’s pledge not to dismiss staff. “The Maldivian people supported Muizzu based on that promise,” Ismail said. He warned that the MDP cannot remain passive as the administration imposes hardship on the public.
The MDP National Council passed a resolution to establish a five-member committee in response to the layoffs. This committee, comprising Vice President Hisaan Hussain, Legal Director Mahfooz Saeed, Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, former Alifushi MP Mohamed Hussain Rasheed, and MDP National Council president for Kudahuvadhoo constituency Shathir Abdul Rahman, will seek justice for staff who have been unfairly dismissed.
Ismail affirmed the MDP’s commitment: “We are prepared to take direct action to ensure the Muizzu administration hears the people’s concerns. We—the MDP—will be the party that saves this nation.”
The MDP National Council will convene weekly to discuss further developments.
