President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured the people of Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo that his administration will ensure equal development across Addu, following the islands’ decision to form separate councils.
Speaking during his visit to Hulhumeedhoo island, the President referred to the referendum held on October 25, where residents of Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo voted in favor of administrative separation. He described the move as a step toward empowering the islands and accelerating development.
“The government will not invent anything new. We’ve followed the people’s wishes in this poll. Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo have long operated independently, and that’s how we’ll continue,” Muizzu said.
He acknowledged concerns about jurisdiction ahead of next year’s council elections and emphasized that the government would respect the islands’ existing administrative practices.
Muizzu also criticized past administrations for treating islands differently based on political interests, stating that his government is committed to eliminating discrimination and promoting equality.
“Even in democracy, the rule is to prioritize the downtrodden and marginalized. That’s not discrimination, that’s justice,” he said.  
ރައީސުލްޖުމްހޫރިއްޔާ، ސ. ހުޅުދޫ އަދި ސ. މީދޫއަށް ވަޑައިގަތުން#RayyithunGaathah #AdduAtollVisit pic.twitter.com/SWqLFZhZz7
— The President's Office (@presidencymv) November 5, 2025
“If you bring those people to the top, you must give them positive discrimination and priority.”
He pledged equal development in health, education, employment, and infrastructure across Addu, including Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo.
The President also announced that construction of a bridge connecting Hulhudhoo-Meedhoo to Hithadhoo will begin next year. A Chinese company has been contracted to submit three design proposals, complete with technical drawings, within six months.
The referendum was held at the request of Hulhudhoo-Meedhoo residents, who cited limited access to services and the need to cross the sea to reach connected islands as major concerns.