Minister of Economic Development Mohamed Saeed has expressed confidence that Major General (Rtd) Moosa Ali Jaleel, the People’s National Congress (PNC) candidate for Mayor of Malé City, would serve residents with commitment and determination.

Saeed made the remarks while speaking at the opening of a campaign hub for PNC candidates contesting the Maafannu West constituency for the Malé City Council and Women’s Development Committee elections.

Addressing the gathering, Saeed said Jaleel is a leader who does not retreat in the face of challenges, describing him as someone prepared to confront difficulties directly rather than avoid responsibility.

Saeed also highlighted what he described as a distinctive approach taken by the current Administration, noting that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is the first President in the country’s history to compile all election pledges into a single document and distribute it to councils and relevant institutions. He described the document as a governance “manual” presented to the public.

He said that while the President is working to implement the commitments outlined in the document, effective delivery requires the election of supportive leadership at city and island levels to assist in executing these initiatives.

Referring specifically to Malé City, Saeed said the Administration requires an energetic and capable leadership team to implement its agenda, adding that Jaleel fits that role as the PNC’s mayoral candidate.

Saeed, who described Jaleel as a long-time colleague, said the retired Major General is not someone who panics or withdraws when issues arise. He added that Jaleel is known for his readiness to respond to challenges at any time, without hesitation.

Saeed said such work ethic is essential, pointing to the President’s own approach as a benchmark. He said the regular Cabinet meetings and the pace of policy implementation demonstrate the Administration’s commitment to fulfilling its pledges.

He further noted that several of the President’s policies are aimed specifically at addressing the needs of Malé City, expressing confidence that these initiatives would be implemented once the Administration’s team is elected to the mayoralty, city council and Women’s Development Committees.

Saeed said electing candidates aligned with the President’s vision would enable faster and more effective implementation of Government policies at the local level.