Former President of the United Nations General Assembly and former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has called on the government to stop awarding development projects exclusively to state-owned companies and instead open them to private firms.
In a Facebook post, Shahid criticized the current practice, particularly in rural areas, where he said state-owned companies without sufficient financial capacity are given priority. He argued this reduces the flow of money in the economy, creates hardships for ordinary citizens, and forces small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into debt and bankruptcy.
Shahid’s comments come as President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, during a recent visit to B. Atoll, handed over several projects — including school construction — to state-owned companies such as Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation.
He stressed that involving private companies would help strengthen the economy, create opportunities for SMEs, and prevent further financial strain on the business sector.
In a Facebook post, Shahid criticized the current practice, particularly in rural areas, where he said state-owned companies without sufficient financial capacity are given priority. He argued this reduces the flow of money in the economy, creates hardships for ordinary citizens, and forces small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into debt and bankruptcy.
Shahid’s comments come as President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, during a recent visit to B. Atoll, handed over several projects — including school construction — to state-owned companies such as Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation.
He stressed that involving private companies would help strengthen the economy, create opportunities for SMEs, and prevent further financial strain on the business sector.
