President Muizzu Outlines Bold Vision for Economic Self-Reliance, Domestic Reform, and 'Maldives First' Foreign Policy

In a landmark address marking the 61st Independence Day of the Maldives, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has unveiled a transformative national vision aimed at liberating the country from longstanding socio-economic and political constraints. 

Speaking at the official ceremony held this morning at the Maldives Centre for Social Education (MCSE), President Muizzu called for an unprecedented level of public empowerment and participation to achieve comprehensive, multi-sectoral national independence.

A New Era of Domestic Stability and Judicial Autonomy

Addressing a distinguished gathering, President Muizzu emphasized that true national sovereignty is impossible without domestic stability and the rule of law. Reflecting on the challenging circumstances his administration inherited, the President pointed to the historical failure of previous governments to tackle chronic issues such as drug abuse, gang-related crime, and undocumented expatriate workers.

What distinguishes this administration is our domestic policies, formulated with the clear objective of addressing these issues head-on, President Muizzu stated. Expressing firm confidence that these systemic challenges can be resolved permanently through consistent policy enforcement and public cooperation, he declared that the Maldives has successfully transitioned away from political retribution and a culture of violence.

As part of his commitment to democratic principles, the President highlighted major strides in strengthening press freedom, freedom of expression, and transparency. He revealed that government institutions have adopted a policy of proactive information disclosure to combat entrenched corruption.

Furthermore, President Muizzu announced a complete end to administrative interference in the judiciary, detailing new financial and institutional support structures designed to guarantee its autonomy. To solidify this progress, he announced that the 2029 judicial year will commence with a fully operational, state-of-the-art Superior Court Complex.

Dismantling Monopolies and Advancing Key Infrastructure

A major highlight of the President’s address was the structural reform of the national economy and healthcare sectors. President Muizzu declared that his administration has successfully dismantled what he termed the medical mafia—a cartel that had long monopolized the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. Practical reforms are now underway to enhance local healthcare accessibility, significantly reducing the financial burden on Maldivians who previously had to travel abroad for essential medical treatments.

On the developmental front, the President reiterated his resolve to address the nation’s housing crisis. He pledged that his administration would make history by becoming the first to initiate, complete, and hand over major housing projects within a single presidential term.

To secure long-term economic and industrial self-reliance, President Muizzu announced a definitive timeline for the relocation of the Malé Commercial Port. By November 11, 2027, the port will be fully operational at K. Thilafushi, remaining under complete government ownership and management to drive national economic expansion. Looking further ahead, the President set a target date of July 26, 2028, to realize a fully modernized, highly progressive Maldives.

Empowering Citizens and Honoring Public Service

President Muizzu extended his warmest congratulations to the recipients of national honors and state service awards, praising their integrity, loyalty, and diligence. To utilize the wealth of experience these distinguished citizens possess, the President announced plans to establish a Presidential Advisory Council comprising recipients of national honors. Additionally, a National Advisory Council consisting of scholars and experts will be formed to guide decision-making on key national issues.

The President also reaffirmed his administration's commitment to legislative reforms aimed at driving the empowerment of women and youth, ensuring their active representation in the country’s legislative and decision-making processes.

Celebrating the Success of 'Maldives First' Foreign Policy

This year’s Independence Day celebrations served as a powerful showcase for the administration's Maldives First foreign policy, boasting the strongest diplomatic presence in the country’s history over the past decade.

The event was attended by 113 diplomats representing 43 countries and international organizations. Among the prominent dignitaries were His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Mansour bin Mutaib bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Minister of State of Saudi Arabia, who attended as the Guest of Honour, and Dr. Khalilur Rahman, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, attending as the Special Guest.

President Muizzu elaborated on the global principles guiding his administration, stating that political independence is hollow without external sovereignty. Reaffirming that “the Maldives belongs to the Maldivian people,” he asserted that foreign relations must always elevate national interests.

While the President expressed a desire to maintain cordial relations with all cooperative nations, he made a firm exception regarding Israel, strongly condemning its ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people.

Correcting what he described as past foreign policies that alienated the Maldives from its traditional allies, President Muizzu concluded by pledging to deepen ties with the Arab and Islamic world, aligning the country’s foreign policy directly with the values, faith, and aspirations of the Maldivian public.