Muizz pledges to relocate 'willing' small populations to urban centres

Having an adequate population is essential to achieve sustainable development and if the people of small population islands wish, relocation is a policy, opposition PPM-PNC presidential candidate Dr Mohamed Muizz said on Saturday.

Muizz made the remarks while visiting V. Thinadhoo, which has a population of 250 people.

"It is our intention to do what the people want to achieve sustainable development. If the people want, to consolidate the population from one island to another, we will respond. It is for any island," he said.

"That is because having a viable population is the most beneficial way to achieve sustainable development”.

Muizz said he has a policy of consolidation but it will not be forced. If the people do not want it, the government will not force it, he said.

According to the latest census, there are 42 islands with a population of less than 500 people living, including foreigners. Of these, five islands have less than 200 people.

Population statistics of V. Thinadhoo:

Muizz added that he would respond to the expectations of the people of the island to the fullest extent possible. Noting that many people live outside the island, Muizz said, business has been shaped in the island.

"The most important philosophy that I am saying is that every citizen of the country should be given equal opportunity, the government should treat them equally, there should be no discrimination in the delivery of services," Muizz said, adding that whether it is a small population or a large population, it should be different.

"I believe that the people of this island will have confidence in me to brighten the future of the country turn things onto a better path." 

Muizz's pledges for Thinadhoo: