President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated the government is continuously working to ensure all the citizens are provided with the basic necessities and services despite the preventative measures taken against the spread of COVID-19 in the Maldives. The administration has closed all government offices, banned congregational prayers, and travelling between islands, in addition to closing the borders of the country and imposing a lockdown in the Greater Male' Region.
Addressing the nation via a televised message, President Solih said the most important priority is given to save the lives of the citizens no matter the cost, adding the administration is following the advises and the instructions from healthcare professionals, The president asked for the cooperation from the citizens to control the spread of the disease, highlighting the Maldives is expected to record the highest number of cases in the next two weeks. He, in particular, appreciated the efforts of the individuals in different fields who are tirelessly working away from their families to overcome the pandemic.
Furthermore, President Solih noted the disease must be prevented from spreading in the outlying islands, highlighting the decision of banning travel between the islands. The president acknowledged the difficulties faced by the citizens due to the preventive measures. He added the government is working on bringing in food, basic necessities, and medicine with the assistance from friendly nations to ease the needs of the citizens during these difficult times.