MDP questions president's pledges, budget discrepancies
MDP members assert that the budget explicitly includes reductions in subsidies.
Opposition members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Thursday questioned the consistency between the budget figures and President Mohamed Muizzu's public promises during his visits across the country.
At a press conference held by the MDP's Parliamentary Group, members expressed concern over apparent contradictions between the approved budget and the president’s statements. According to the opposition, while the budget outlines significant subsidy reductions, the president has reassured citizens that no subsidies will be cut.
Last Tuesday, during a visit to Alif Alif Atoll, President Muizzu announced that no subsidies would be reduced, including those on electricity, oil, and sugar. However, MDP members assert that the budget explicitly includes reductions in subsidies.
Deputy parliamentary group leader, Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Ziyad pointed to the budget book itself:
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The document outlines the subsidy reductions.
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The formulas for calculating these cuts and their financial implications are clearly defined.
"But despite these details, the president has publicly claimed, in clear Dhivehi, that nothing will be reduced. This inconsistency raises serious concerns," Ziyad said.
Dr Ahmed Shamheed, MP for Hulhumalé South, echoed these concerns, stating that the President's promises contradict the fiscal reality presented in the budget. Shamheed highlighted two key issues:
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If the president’s claims are upheld, the budget deficit could increase by an additional MVR 6 billion, creating further economic challenges.
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The president should provide clear explanations to both parliament and the finance committee when making such declarations, as they directly impact national finances.
While addressing residents of A.A. Mathiveri, President Muizzu doubled down on his assurances. He stated that subsidies and the national healthcare scheme, Aasandha, would not be reduced. Additionally, he made promises regarding pay harmonization for civil servants:
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Those left out of pay harmonisation in 2024 will be compensated in 2025.
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Employees in the judiciary will receive revised payments by 2025.
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By 2026, salary revisions and increments will be extended to all remaining sectors.
The MDP has called on President Muizzu to reconcile his public remarks with the budget figures. They warn that failing to do so will erode public trust and create further uncertainty about the nation's financial future.
