PNC Deputy Leader and Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has stated that opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Abdulla Sodiq had previously been given multiple opportunities to serve the people of Addu City but failed to deliver the development expected by residents.

Speaking at the campaign launch of People's National Congress (PNC) candidate Ahmed Saeed for the North Hithadhoo by-election, the minister noted that Sodiq had served in several senior positions, including as Mayor of Addu City between 2011 and 2021, and had also been appointed State Minister at the Planning Ministry with responsibilities linked to infrastructure development in Addu City.

Minister Shiyam stated that Addu City had consistently supported MDP administrations and candidates in previous elections with expectations of development and economic progress. However, he alleged that the city had continued to face neglect in areas related to economic, social and infrastructure development despite those opportunities.

The minister further stated that residents of North Hithadhoo were seeking stronger development outcomes and understood the importance of having a parliamentarian who could work closely with the government to address local concerns.

Referring to the broader political context within the opposition, minister Shiyam also alleged that internal divisions within the MDP would limit the opposition candidate’s ability to focus on constituency-related matters if elected to parliament.