Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) President and Dhaalu Meedhoo MP Ahmed Siyam Mohamed has called on the government to revise policies that enable corruption and to implement transparent and equitable policies in the best interest of the state.  
Delivering his New Year address on Wednesday, Siyam extended greetings to the people of Maldives and MDA members, praying that 2026 would be a year of prosperity and happiness for all.  
Reflecting on the past year, Siyam said 2025 brought many changes to the country, including rising living costs and economic hardship. He noted that the black market dollar rate had exceeded MVR 20 and warned that the job market was becoming increasingly difficult for those seeking civil employment. He said equal opportunities for work had diminished.  
Siyam urged all relevant authorities to uphold the constitutional rights of all citizens without discrimination. He also cited warnings from global financial institutions that 2026 could bring economic instability, and called for urgent policy reform to protect the country from external shocks.  
MDA President and Member of Parliament for the Meedhoo Constituency, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed greets supporters gathered to welcome him in Dh.Bandidhoo, September 6, 2025. (Sun Photo/Ahmed Iyadh)
“To mitigate the impact of economic shocks, we must reconsider the policies that facilitate corruption and implement transparent and equitable policies that best serve the state,” Siyam said.  
He also called on young people and all working‑age citizens to commit to earning a livelihood and contributing to the nation’s economy.  
Siyam concluded his address by praying for a happy and prosperous year ahead for the Maldivian people.