People's National Congress (PNC) Chairman and Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla has dismissed the Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) criticism of the economy, arguing that the opposition lacks credibility to comment on economic issues given its record in government. 

Speaking during MMTV’s coverage of PNC’s internal election, Speaker Abdul Raheem said the MDP had failed to strengthen the economy during its two terms in office, accusing the former administration of relying on existing State assets rather than creating new economic value. Referring to former President Mohamed Nasheed's administration, he claimed key State assets, including the country's main airport and shares in State-owned companies, had been sold or mortgaged instead of being used to build long-term economic resilience.

He also accused the MDP government of illegally printing MVR 8 billion, arguing that the move contributed to changes in the value of the Maldivian currency. Speaker Abdul Raheem further said the country's economy continues to face external pressures, including rising global oil prices linked to tensions in the Gulf region, adding that such challenges are not the result of any particular administration.

Highlighting the current Government's economic management, the Speaker said the repayment of billions in debt over the past 18 months demonstrated that the economy was being managed responsibly and strengthened. He also claimed public support for MDP-led protests had declined because people could distinguish between the country's economic conditions under previous administrations and the present Government.