President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has underlined if Maldivians remain apprehensive of steps foreign parties might take against the country, they will forever have to remain in a form of slavery and fear. Action taken by foreign parties against Maldives does not exempt the country from the extensive blessings of Allah Almighty, President Abdulla Yameen noted addressing the rally held by Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).
Criticising the administration of opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), President Yameen stated despite the numerous rumours that action would be taken against the government following end of the MDP administration, people who threatened action had to accept the report of Commission of National Inquiry (CONI), compiled by the Commonwealth.
Furthermore, citing the debt in the country and responding to critics, President Yameen noted the debt was over USD 1.87 billion, when he assumed office in November 2013. The president said the debt was recorded at almost USD 3 billion by June 2018, which included the debt left by previous government and the hefty sum of USD 320 million paid as compensation for India's GMR Group. Therefore, the president revealed, the total debt generated by his administration, over the past five years, only amounts to USD 776 million.
The president expressed that Maldives, being a small country with few resources, has to depend on aid and loans provided by international partners and foreign investment to develop the country. He assured the administration has the formula to repay the loans and assured to continue the development efforts, in his second term in office.
During the function, former parliamentarian Alhan Fahmy joined PPM, along with 1 thousand people from Hulhumale' and another 250 people from Thinadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The rally held in carnival area was attended by over 30 thousand supporters.