The Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, has stated that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s inability to ensure accountability cannot be attributed solely to the absence of a majority, adding that the party faces significant internal leadership challenges.

He made the remarks while speaking on the People’s National Congress (PNC) campaign programme Dhiveheenge Raajje, broadcast through local media outlets.

Responding to claims by the MDP that securing a majority in local councils is necessary to hold the Government accountable, Saeed said that while a responsible and constructive opposition is essential in a democracy, the MDP’s shortcomings cannot be explained simply by its numerical position in councils.

The Minister stated that when the current Administration assumed office, the country was in a difficult condition. He said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is implementing measures aimed at steering the nation forward and improving overall conditions. Referring to the fiscal situation in 2024 compared to the present, Saeed said the President has delivered visible and measurable results.

Saeed described the upcoming Local Council Elections as important for reinforcing the Government’s efforts to stabilise the economy and fulfil the President’s pledges.

He also dismissed allegations from opposition figures that granting council majorities to the ruling PNC would undermine decentralisation. Instead, he said the party remains committed to strengthening the decentralised governance system.

“The question is who was given the majority when things went wrong. The simple answer is that when the majority was given to the MDP, the situation deteriorated,” Saeed said.

He cited housing as one of the most pressing national concerns, stating that the MDP’s five-year tenure produced largely unfulfilled pledges and land allocations from reclaimed areas without substantive progress. In contrast, he said the current administration has, within a shorter period, advanced housing initiatives and converted plans into tangible outcomes.

Saeed added that continued public support for the PNC would enable the Government to further strengthen decentralisation and sustain national development efforts.