Former President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the current government has no money for Aasandha because too much money was spent on the ‘coup’.
He made this statement while speaking at the MDP rally at Artificial Beach last night.
He said the MVR720 million assigned for Aasandha is likely to have been spent on the participants of the ‘coup’, and also to repair the damage caused by the ‘coup’.
“Exactly MVR50 million was required to repair the windows, computers, and chairs used to hit Officers; MVR300 million was spent on the teargas, and damage caused by the arson attacks. An additional MVR300 million was spent the next day,” Nasheed said.
Nasheed said that the current government has made several expenses to compensate the participants of the ‘coup’ for their efforts.
“MNDF and Police personnel have been increased. MVR228 million was spent on that. Police officers have been promoted. This is not mentioned in the budget. MVR63 million was spent on that. Two new Ministries have been established, also not mentioned in the budget. MVR22 million was spent on that, to buy the cars, desks, chairs,” Nasheed said.
He said that the President spends excessive amounts when he visits islands, as he has to be accompanied by a large Police and MNDF force.
He also mentioned the decision to reimburse civil servants for the money that was deducted from their salaries during Nasheed’s administration, and said that all these things have left no money for Aasandha.
Last night’s rally was attended by MDP National Council Members and MDP supporters.