Yameen Calls Out Gov’t for Lack of Revenue Boost
Photo: The President’s Office
Former President Abdulla Yameen has criticized the government, highlighting concerns about spending without a corresponding increase in revenue.
Yameen, currently serving an 11-year jail sentence under house arrest, voiced his opinions at a rally hosted by the newly formed People’s National Front (PNF), a party he is establishing following a split from the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM). This separation occurred shortly after President Dr Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November, jointly leading the PPM with the People’s National Congress (PNC).
While expressing a willingness to support initiatives for the welfare of the people, Yameen emphasised his observation of continuous expenditure without a parallel focus on revenue generation. Noting India as the closest country to the Maldives, Yameen, who previously launched the “India Out” campaign during his opposition with the PPM, highlighted that the Maldives owed USD 3 billion to India at the conclusion of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s term.
Yameen pointed out the delay in completing the new terminal at Velana International Airport, initiated during his administration six years ago. He criticized the airport’s inability to contribute to revenue generation, stating, “And we have not heard any minister or any other official of this government saying that certain projects are being launched to generate revenue and the results will be seen on a certain day.”
Addressing the state budget, Yameen raised concerns about the accumulation of debt each year and the continued increase in expenditures without corresponding revenue-generating measures. He specifically highlighted the rise in recurrent expenditure without accompanying revenue projects.