Former President Yameen Criticizes Government and SOEs Over Corruption and Overreach
Former President Abdulla Yameen has accused the current government of widespread corruption and mismanagement during the first major rally of his People’s National Front (PNF), titled ‘Wake Up,’ held at Artificial Beach.
Speaking to a large crowd of residents from Malé and surrounding islands, Yameen painted a critical picture of the administration, highlighting what he called the failure of government institutions and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to operate properly.
Concerns Over State-Owned Enterprises
Yameen focused much of his criticism on SOEs, claiming that several have been taking on projects outside their core mandates. He noted that the Road Development Corporation (RDC) is now building hospitals, WAMCO, the waste management company, has ventured into tourism, and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) is producing local delicacies like ‘killi.’
“Once the main gear loses its grip, the rest spiral into the same disarray. This is no positive outlook for the future,” Yameen said.
He warned that the diversion of these companies from their original purposes reflects a wider problem of mismanagement, leaving both SOEs and the country weakened.
Criticism of Government Institutions
Yameen also criticized government institutions, saying none are functioning effectively. He singled out the courts, the Anti-Corruption Commission, and the office of the Prosecutor General, claiming they have failed to act against corruption.
“Why would the Prosecutor General not notify the police and the ACC when serious allegations are being raised?” Yameen asked. He added that the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Maldives Monetary Authority is not enough to address these issues. According to him, the country has been left “no more than an empty shell” due to institutional failures.
Political Leaders and Accountability
The former president did not spare political leaders from criticism. He said that many have fallen under government influence and are unable to defend the rights of citizens. As an example, Yameen cited Jumhooree Party leader Qasim Ibrahim, noting that Kaadedhoo Airport remained under his control regardless of which administration was in power. He also alleged that the airport had been poorly operated for years, and when the government finally took over, it forgave USD 30 million in taxes.
“What a shameful situation. How is there no corruption involved in this? Someone would have benefited at the expense of the State,” Yameen said.
Local Governance and Decentralization
In addition to corruption claims, Yameen criticized recent amendments to the Decentralization Act, arguing that they weaken local councils and undermine public participation in governance. He expressed concern that local authorities are losing power while central institutions fail to function properly.
Public Participation at the Rally
PNF described the event as a national gathering rather than a political rally, welcoming all Maldivians to participate and voice their opinions. Residents from Malé and nearby islands attended, and Yameen emphasized that the country needs to address corruption and inefficiency before progress can be made.
“Is it only the companies that have become shells of what they were? I believe the whole country has become a shell,” he said, urging citizens to stay vigilant and demand accountability.