Only govt leaders satisfied, happy: Yameen

Former President Abdulla Yameen has criticised the current administration, describing it as a “dark state” and claiming only government leaders are satisfied under current policies.

Speaking at the People’s National Front (PNF) “Wake Up” rally held at Artificial Beach on Wednesday, Yameen said the public is burdened by rising costs and financial pressures.

He alleged that the value of the Maldivian Rufiyaa has depreciated due to government policies and said corruption within the administration had increased. Yameen also claimed that while a small group of individuals with close ties to government leaders benefit from jobs and appointments, most citizens continue to face financial difficulties.

“Who is satisfied today? Those in power are satisfied. The pockets are filled with bribe money. The people are living in hardship,” he said.

Turning to the fisheries sector, Yameen compared current fish prices with those prior to the present administration. He said fishermen are now paid significantly less than before, citing figures to support his claim.

According to Yameen, fish prices had previously remained between MVR 20 and MVR 22 per kilogram, but with the Rufiyaa having depreciated by around 35 percent, the price should now be about MVR 30 per kilogram. However, he noted that the state-owned company MIFCO is currently buying fish at MVR 16 per kilogram, which he said is half the previous rate.

Yameen further accused the government of failing to deliver on its economic pledges, including projects announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and cabinet ministers. He claimed many assurances had not materialised.

“We are suffering from thousands of lies every day. More false promises to fulfil false promises. That is what we are going through,” he said.