Zameer: Anniversary function will be held by government, not PPM

Minister of Tourism, Moosa Zameer has declared that function to celebrate three-year anniversary of President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom – Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) rule will be held by the Maldivian government, and not PPM.

Minister Zameer made the comment during the press briefing held at President’s Office this Sunday regarding the anniversary celebrations.

Zameer said that he expected the function to gather a larger crowd than the recent PPM gathering held in Male’, as it will be held by the government.

Our party will not do anything to promote the function.But we have planned for a place to accommodate an expected 12,000 people," said Zameer. “I believe that since it isn’t a party event, the numbers may be higher."

He said that he expected the civil servants – who played the biggest role in implementing President Yameen’s agendas – would attend the function.

“Truth be told, its civil servants who have played the key role in delivering President Yameen’s agendas. I give a special shout out to civil servants and thank them for the services they have delivered to the people,” said Zameer.

When asked about concern civil servants and employees of State-owned companies being pressured into attending the anniversary function, Minister Zameer said that civil servants would attend a function which celebrated their accomplishments.

“For example, STO or Airports Company; employees of these companies will attend the function. They will be given the resources they are entitled to as their accomplishments are celebrated,” said Zameer.

He said he did not believe Maldives had a system of pressuring civil servants and companies. And that they would do what was necessary in the line of their work.

“I don’t believe anyone can be coerced into doing anything in Maldives.”