Former President Mohamed Nasheed’s latest call to suspend all national development projects for five years has ignited strong criticism, with many accusing him of hypocrisy and political opportunism.
In a social media post, Nasheed proposed that the next presidential campaign slogan should be “Let’s pause for now”, arguing that large-scale infrastructure projects financed through foreign loans have led the Maldives into a cycle of debt. He claimed that “concrete is not development but debt,” urging that all projects be frozen for up to five years.
Yet, Nasheed’s remarks stand in stark contrast to his own record in office. During his presidency, he dramatically expanded public spending — introducing universal healthcare, old-age pensions, and single-parent allowances — measures that turned the Maldives into a welfare-dependent state and permanently inflated government expenditure.
Critics point out that while Nasheed continues to enjoy the privileges of both a former president and former parliamentary speaker, he now preaches financial restraint to the public. Economists have long noted that the welfare commitments made under his administration created enduring fiscal strains that successive governments have had to manage.
Nasheed also took aim at the government’s current development agenda, questioning the logic of constructing multiple airports within close proximity. He cited ongoing projects in Shaviyani Atoll — areas already reachable within 30 minutes by speedboat — calling them “unsustainable.” Analysts, however, argue that these projects are designed to boost regional connectivity and tourism, key priorities under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.
Political observers believe Nasheed’s statement is an attempt to reposition himself as a “fiscal conservative” ahead of another possible presidential bid, despite his own record of promoting debt-funded populism.
Meanwhile, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining economic stability while continuing development. In recent statements, the President assured that the government will honor all international debt obligations, including upcoming sukuk repayments, without disrupting ongoing national projects. His assurance comes amid renewed investor confidence and a strategic focus on sustainable infrastructure and debt management, signaling that the Maldives’ growth will continue — responsibly and without interruption.
Nasheed’s call to “pause” may appeal to pessimism — but under Muizzu’s leadership, the Maldives remains firmly on course toward progress, stability, and self-reliance.
