Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has said that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is focused on building the country rather than engaging in political responses.

The minister made the remarks while speaking at the launch of the People’s National Congress (PNC) election campaign in Addu City ahead of the upcoming Local Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections.

Saeed said the President does not engage in political criticism, but instead prioritises national development. “The President is not criticising people politically. He is working to build the country,” he said.

Using a metaphor to describe the state of the country when the current Administration assumed office, the minister said the national ship was in severe distress. He said water was leaking from all sides, safety caps had been removed, and the vessel was taking on water continuously, while national debt had reached unsustainable levels.

Saeed said the Government has since stabilised the situation and placed the country back on a firm course. He expressed confidence that the national ship is now moving forward with full capacity and without being weighed down by excessive debt.

The minister also called on party supporters to stand firmly behind the President, noting that his development pledges have been clearly laid out to the nation, with particular focus on Addu Atoll.