Saeed credits current govt team for major projects; says Yameen deserves credit

Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed said on Thursday that members of the current administration played central roles in major infrastructure projects launched during the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office, Saeed said the public elected the current government to continue economic and infrastructure development.

He noted that several major projects, including the Sinamalé Bridge, the expansion of Velana International Airport, reclamation works for Hulhumalé Phase II, and the Hiyaa housing project, were initiated during the previous Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) administration.

Saeed said he served as Economic Minister during that period, while current President Mohamed Muizzu was Minister of Housing and Infrastructure.

Recalling the launch of the Sinamalé Bridge project, Saeed said members of the then-opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) had questioned whether such a project could be completed in the Maldives.

“That initiative was led by the current President, myself, and several ministers from that era who are still serving today,” Saeed said.

“We were all members of the Cabinet. It is only one or two individuals who are no longer with us. Is this not the same team? Is this not the same party? We are the people who built the bridge. We are the ones who developed the airports and modernised Velana International Airport for a new era.”

He also said the MDP had criticised spending on airport development projects, arguing at the time that such investments could negatively affect the economy.

“This is that party — the party of development,” Saeed said.

When asked whether the absence of former President Yameen’s name in earlier remarks suggested he was not being credited, Saeed said Yameen deserved recognition for the projects undertaken during his administration.

“No, not at all! President Yameen deserves a great deal of credit,” he said.

Saeed also stated that President Muizzu continues to hold respect for Yameen and said there is no division between members of the current administration and the former president.

“President Muizzu is someone who holds great love for President Yameen, cares for him deeply, and would always wish to stand by his side,” he said.

The minister added that he does not believe President Muizzu holds any ill will toward Yameen and reiterated that “we are all one team.”