President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih addresses a rally in ADh. Dhigurah on September 7, 2023. (Photo/MDP)

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has accused rival candidates of lacking any original pledges, and restoring to copying pledges off the ruling MDP’s manifesto.

In a campaign rally at ADh. Dhigurah on Wednesday, President Solih said that what his rival candidates have been saying lack any substance.

“Most times, they make slight alterations to what we say in places like these or to what’s written on our manifesto. If I say I’ll build an airport, they say, okay, we will make it a bit larger. If I say I will build a harbor, they say we will make it a bit deeper. They make these kinds of pledges,” he said.

President Solih said that voters are smarter than that.

He asked that voters consider these things before casting their ballot on Saturday.

President Solih said that while the Ari Atoll is one of the biggest sources of revenue to the state, the state of the atoll’s islands is less than desirable.

“The people would not be in this state, if even a percentage of the revenue generated had been spent on these islands. The people would be far happier, and far more prosperous,” he said.

President Solih said that he had decided on day one that he would eliminate all discrimination, and provide services to all citizens, irrespective of the size of the population.

He said that the Maldivian people were smart and resourceful, and just needed access to basic services.

“The work we have begun cannot be accomplished in one or two days. We have merely laid the foundation of the facilities residential islands need to have,” he said.

He said the people won’t begin to truly enjoy the benefits of development until at least two-three years later.