PNC MP Shaheed: Huge Accumulated Debt Hampers Government's Ability to Deliver Promises

Hulhudhoo constituency PNC member Mohamed Shaheed (Shaad) has stated that the government is unable to deliver on its promises to the extent desired by the people because it must repay a huge accumulated debt. Speaking during the budget debate in today's session of the People's Majlis, Shaad noted that even over the past three years, the government submitted budgets to the Majlis, yet people were asking what had actually been accomplished. He emphasized that when the government presents a budget, the public should understand its purpose and how the funds are spent. Shaad remarked that governments come to power with promises to be close to the people, clear their doubts, and work for them, but spending solely on pledges such as healthcare for the sick, student loans, and housing is not sufficient through the budget. He expressed concern that budget expenditure often fails to fully deliver promised services, largely because a large accumulated debt must be repaid. As an example, he cited that since the Daruma Hospital building was mortgaged and money was borrowed against it, failure to repay could result in the property being seized, preventing services from being provided there. Shaad also noted that income is not being generated to the extent projected in the budget. However, he expressed satisfaction that despite responsible debt repayment, the government continues to solve issues for the people's satisfaction, and he welcomed the fact that taxes were not increased in the budget despite the challenges.