Malé — President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has emphasized that as the opening of Velana International Airport’s new terminal approaches, credit for its development should be given to all who genuinely contributed — regardless of political affiliation.
Speaking on the government’s “With the People” podcast, President Muizzu said that the public will soon be able to see, through documented figures and facts, the role played by each administration in the progress of the billion-dollar airport project.
The terminal, scheduled to open on July 26, was part of a broader infrastructure plan initiated during the presidency of Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. While plans were laid out during that time, actual construction had not begun before the end of Yameen’s term. The project then continued through the administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and now under President Muizzu.
In his remarks, President Muizzu noted that politicizing major development projects by tying them to individual leaders is an unhealthy societal trend. “Whatever people say, the facts remain unchanged,” he said, adding that the complete timeline and contributions are already well-documented.
He also acknowledged the foundational work done to develop the airport during the earlier presidencies of Ibrahim Nasir and Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. “We must show appreciation and give credit to all those who truly deserve it,” Muizzu stated.
The President’s comments underscore the need to view national development as a collective effort across administrations — and to ensure that recognition is based on merit, not politics.
