President recalls '4 years of service without prejudice'
The president said that four years ago, the people wanted a just government that would ensure their rights would be accountable to the people.
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Friday recalled his pledge four years ago to realise the people's hopes and stated that his administration had served the people without prejudice or discrimination.
He made these remarks while addressing the nation at the official function held in Dharubaaruge to mark the 55th Republic Day.
Recalling the nation's state four years ago, the president described it as a time of uncertainty and fear when our constitutional rights and freedoms were suppressed. He also stated that political leaders were imprisoned and the country was isolated from the international community.
The president said that four years ago, the people wanted a just government that would ensure their rights would be accountable to the people, uphold the constitution, and ensure the rule of law. He said the people wanted a government that would provide a cohesive environment and equitable development without prejudice or discrimination.
The president said that the responsibilities that rested on his shoulders when he took office began with decentralising powers. Speaking about the achievements the people relish today, the president said the administration had ensured income and jobs over the past four years and an affordable high-speed transport network between the islands. He also spoke about the administration's commitment to justice and good governance.
The president also spoke about Thursday morning's fire incident in Iskandhar Magu, in Male. Describing it as the most tragic incident to befall us in recent history, the President assured that the administration would accord high priority to the ensuing investigations and other related matters.
Citing that the high level of congestion in Male had led to several tragic incidents, the president stated that living near garages, carpentry shops, warehouses, and other industrial workshops was unsafe. Highlighting that the administration had relocated chemical warehouses from Malé, the President noted the need to move other industrial workplaces away from residential areas.
