MDP declines participation in national development plan drafting
While noting the importance of a long-term national development framework, the MDP expressed concern over the government’s approach.
The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has announced it will not take part in the drafting of the government’s 20-year National Development Plan, Viluntheri Raajje 2045.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the MDP confirmed it had declined a request from Nexia Maldives Pvt Ltd, the firm contracted to coordinate the plan, to meet and discuss the initiative.
While noting the importance of a long-term national development framework, the MDP expressed concern over the government’s approach. The party said it is unclear how the plan is being developed, who is being consulted, and whether the process is being carried out in accordance with the Constitution and the law.
The MDP cited ongoing construction projects announced by the government, the proposed abolition of atoll councils, plans for population relocation, and changes to environmental protection regulations as reasons for its decision. It added that there is no assurance that any revised plan will be implemented.
“For these reasons, the party does not consider it necessary to participate in the current process,” the statement read.
The working team overseeing the plan has said the National Development Plan for 2025–2045 aims to incorporate broad public input and is central to President Mohamed Muizzu’s efforts to develop the Maldives. The stated objectives include enabling long-term planning, ensuring sustainable use of resources, and strengthening national capacity to adapt to global economic, technological, and climate-related changes.
