President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the nation's liberation from political retribution and his Administration's unwavering commitment to addressing major national challenges warrant recognition on this Independence Day.
He made these remarks during his address at the official Independence Day ceremony held this morning at the Maldives Centre for Social Education (MCSE) to commemorate the 61st Independence Day of the Maldives.
Underscoring the importance of domestic stability in securing complete independence, the President reflected on the challenging circumstances inherited by his Administration upon assuming office. He referred to the widespread prevalence of drug abuse, gang-related crime, undocumented expatriate workers and the resulting state of disorder across the country, noting that previous administrations had been unable to deliver meaningful solutions to these longstanding challenges.
The President stated that what distinguished his Administration was its domestic policies, which were formulated with the clear objective of addressing these issues. He added that the positive outcomes now being witnessed are a direct result of that approach. Expressing confidence that these three major challenges can be resolved permanently, the President said this would be possible through the consistent implementation of Government policies and the collective efforts of citizens, institutions, friendly nations and organisations.
The President also underscored the importance of democracy, in its truest form, in safeguarding national independence and domestic stability. He reiterated that his Administration has ensured unprecedented levels of democratic freedom, citing the opportunities afforded to the opposition as evidence of its commitment to democratic principles.
The President further stated that his Administration has liberated the nation from political retribution and a culture of violence. He also highlighted the significant progress made in strengthening press freedom and freedom of expression within the framework prescribed by Islam and the Constitution.
Turning to judicial autonomy, the President stated that his Administration has brought an end to the practice of administrative interference in the judiciary. He said judicial independence has been strengthened by guaranteeing both financial autonomy and the institutional support necessary for the judiciary to function independently. In this regard, he announced that the 2029 judicial year would commence with the Superior Court Complex fully operational.
The President also noted that all Government institutions have ensured the proactive disclosure of information, commending his Administration for the record progress made in advancing transparency across Government. He further highlighted the decisive measures being introduced to combat corruption that had become entrenched within the system, assuring the public that those found to have engaged in corrupt practices would be held accountable and brought to justice.
With regard to healthcare, the President recalled how the Administration had dismantled what he described as the "medical mafia", which had monopolised the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. He added that practical reforms are being implemented to improve access to healthcare, thereby reducing the need for Maldivians to travel abroad for essential medical treatment.