Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed has urged against spreading misinformation that could harm the country’s economic stability.
He made the remarks in a social media post addressing inaccurate opposition claims regarding the Maldivian economy.
In his post, the minister said the opposition was spreading misinformation by stating that commodity prices have increased sharply. He accused the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) of attempting to create unrest to coincide with 12 and 13 August each year.
Responding to the opposition claims, which the minister said are politically motivated, Saeed said a litre of petrol currently costs USD 1.04 and diesel USD 1.13 in the Maldives. He compared these prices to regional and international prices and noted that the prices in the Maldives are considerably lower. While a litre of petrol costs USD 2.65 in Singapore, and USD 1.21 in India, diesel is selling for USD 2.7 per litre in Singapore and USD 1.04 in India, he noted. Meanwhile, the diesel rate is USD 1.04 per litre in Dubai, he added.
The minister said the current administration is working hard to maintain commodity prices despite several economic challenges facing the country including those caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict, and the previous government printing USD 518.8 million and weakening the currency. He accused the opposition of trying to create political unrest and expressed disappointment that past leaders have made irresponsible statements regarding the economy that creates unrest and panic among citizens.
Saeed defended the government’s economic policies, and said the administration is working to revive the economy through multiple means. These efforts are not agreeable to the opposition, he noted. According to the minister, measures such as introducing a residency visa system, developing townships and attracting large investments and the introduction of bunkering services are disliked by the opposition. He said if the government’s work is not acceptable to the opposition, they should offer and explain alternative solutions.