President Solih makes key 100-day pledges

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced key pledges for his first 100 days in office.

Solih announced the pledges during his address to the people after his inauguration this Saturday evening.

“By the end of the first 100 days; electricity fares will be lowered, education up to first degree level will be made free, breakfast initiative for school students will be launched,” said Solih.

Free higher education and a breakfast initiative for school students was one of Solih’s campaign pledges. Funds for higher education, breakfast initiative for students and electricity subsidies have been allocated in the projected State budget for 2019 under Solih’s guidance.

Solih also pledged to approve use of pension fund to finance Hajj pilgrimage by amending the Pension Act.

Solih said he will impose a ban on fishing in Maldivian territorial waters by foreign parties and cut import duties on farming products in order to boost the local agriculture industry.

He also pledged to expand the role of Maldives at the international stage in environmental protection initiatives.

“Maldives will become the leading island nation to protect the world against the effects of global warming,” said Solih.

He pledged to ensure proceeds from Green Tax are directed solely for environment protection programs.

Directing his attention towards health care, Solih pledged to improve emergency response by expanding sea ambulance services to the entire country. He also pledged to establish a national mental health institute and approve the State insurance scheme Aasansha for mental health care.

Solih also pledged to empower island councils via decentralization and run concentrated housing need assessments through councils to ensure housing for all Maldivian citizens.

Solih took his oath of office during a function held at the Galolhu National Stadium this Saturday evening.

His inauguration was attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Sri Lankan President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga and high-level delegates from 46 countries.

Former Maldivian presidents Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik and Mohamed Nasheed also attended the inauguration.