Nasheed says many MDP-era projects were halted near completion
He said governments have a responsibility to ensure that projects funded through loans are completed and brought into use.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has said that many development projects initiated during the administration of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) were halted despite being close to completion.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Hulhumalé on Friday night, Nasheed said he had observed numerous unfinished projects during visits to islands across the country as part of his campaign for the MDP chairperson election.
Nasheed said he had travelled to more than 70 islands in recent days and found that many projects launched under the MDP government had been stopped when most of the work had already been completed.
"There are sewerage systems where only the covers have been placed over the junctions. Power lines remain hanging over household walls. Buildings have foundations and walls but no roofs. Some structures have been plastered but have no doors or paint," he said.
"Projects were started and then left unfinished. This represents a significant loss."
Nasheed devoted much of his address to the country's debt situation, arguing that abandoning projects financed through borrowing increases financial pressures.
He said governments have a responsibility to ensure that projects funded through loans are completed and brought into use.
According to Nasheed, leaving projects unfinished reduces the benefits expected from the investments while debt obligations remain.
Nasheed also reflected on the situation his administration faced after taking office in 2008.
He said the MDP government inherited 32 unfinished projects that had been launched following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
One of the administration's priorities, he said, was to complete those projects rather than leave them idle.
Nasheed stressed the importance of completing ongoing work before infrastructure deteriorates and costs increase further.
Addressing the country's economic outlook, Nasheed warned that failure to address current challenges could have long-term consequences.
He said the Maldives must manage its resources carefully to avoid deeper financial difficulties and ensure that public investments deliver their intended benefits.
Nasheed said his decision to contest the MDP chairperson election was driven by a desire to help the country navigate economic challenges and adapt to changes taking place globally.
"That is why I am asking you to elect me to this position," he told supporters.
