President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the equitable provision of essential services leads to unity and peace.
At the ceremony held to mark National Unity Day in Kolhufushi, Meemu Atoll, President Solih said that he had to face the challenge of political turmoil instilling hostility in the population when he assumed office and that his first order of business was to establish peace and allow citizens to live in harmony with each other. As such, he said providing essential services without neglecting any community was a key pledge that has led to public peace.
Additionally, President Solih said that every project to develop water supply and sewerage services is a step towards the government’s pledge to provide the services to all citizens and that harbours are being developed to solve the travel and transportation issues in all parts of the country. He noted that many citizens have been deprived of essential services such as clean water and medical treatment for years and that the government is making efforts to improve these services across the country.
Furthermore, President Solih noted the courage displayed by citizens during the 2004 tsunami and said the Maldives had escaped the level of devastation experienced by other affected countries. He said that many islands were severely damaged and made unlivable but that there were no incidents of violence within the affected population as was seen in other countries, as Maldivians showed compassion and worked together to help the victims.
National Unity Day is observed in remembrance of the spirit of national unity and solidarity shown by the people in the immediate aftermath of the devastating Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004.