President Solih: I have never abused my powers

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih says that even though rulers of countries have numerous powers, and the opportunity to do “whatever they want”, he has never abused his powers.

He made the remark during a campaign rally in B. Kudarikilu on Wednesday.

Addressing the rally, President Solih accused the previous administration of multiple cases of abuse of power.

“If a ruler wants, its not just the roof of the Supreme Court they can remove. They can remove the roofs of the Supreme Court, the High Court, and all other court, simultaneously. That is, if they were to abuse their power. But we, certainly I, am not someone to abuse my powers,” he said.

President Solih said that abuse of power will only push the country into turmoil.

“The peace and stability we enjoy today is the stability we received because we did not [abuse our powers],” he said.

Addressing the opposition leader, former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s imprisonment, President Solih said that Yameen was convicted of corruption, and that no matter how much he wants to see him free, he will not interfere in the court system.

“You won’t have money either, when you steal public funds and deposit in your personal bank account. And after the court looks into it makes its ruling, he is asking to be released. How can I? The courts are operating independently,” he said.

President Solih’s trip to Kudarikilu on Wednesday marks his first visit to the island in 15 years.

He made several electoral pledges to the island:

• Development of the health center
• Construction of a multi-purpose hall and development of additional resources at the island’s school
• Development of a health center
• Introduction of ATM services
• Introduction of Fenaka’s electricity services

President Solih said that what the people want is access to services, and that the previous administration had failed to get it done.