President to Muizzu: Hinnavaru will not change its decision; best to give me a second term

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih addresses a rally in Lh. Hinnavaru on August 31, 2023. (Photo/MDP)

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih says that he does not believe his home island of Lh. Hinnavaru will vote for anyone but him, adding that getting re-elected for a second term is in the best interest of the entire Maldives.

Addressing a campaign rally in Hinnavaru on Thursday, President Solih said that voters must compare his administration to the 2013 administration before making their decision.

He said that Hinnavaru has decided to move forward with the main ruling MDP.

His remarks appear to target Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, his rival candidate from the opposition PPM-PNC coalition. Muizzu, who also visited Hinnavaru earlier Thursday, said he had high hopes for a majority from the island.

“I am sure the people of Hinnavaru have already made their decision. It will not change. It is still the best for you, the people of Hinnavaru, to choose me again. It is also the best for the people of Naifaru,” he said.

Supporters attend President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's campaign rally in Lh. Hinnavaru on August 31, 2023. (Photo/MDP)

“Choosing me is the best for the people of the entire Faadhippolhu region. I am the best choice for the entire country, for all the islands north of Male’. And it is also the best for the people of Male’ to elect me, one more time.”

President Solih described being born in Hinnavaru as his greatest honor. He said that he has always found it difficult to make public speeches in Hinnavaru, where the people know him well.

“What can I say. This is the island I was born in. I am proud of this fact… I grew up here, until I was about 10 years old,” he said.

President Solih said that Hinnavaru remains the most pleasant island to live in.

He said that people must consider why great servicepeople choose not to live in their home islands.

“This is a big question we have before us,” he said.

He said that the Maldivian people will not experience true benefits unless nationwide development projects are run.