Maldives President Solih lists key focus areas for first 100 days of his administration

New President of Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has reiterated key pledges, including implementing judicial reform, restoring fundamental rights, recovering stolen assets, and seeking the truth behind unresolved murders and abductions as his priorities in the first 100 days of his administration.

In his first address after being sworn in as seventh President of the country, Solih said Maldives has a rare second chance for democracy pledging to restore constitutional rule and govern without discrimination.

His comments came as his predecessor Abdulla Yameen was accused of violating democratic principles and human rights apart from indulging in corruption during his tenure.

The new President said state’s finances are in a precarious state due to many projects carried out at a loss only for political purposes and the theft of billions from state coffers. He said the new administration will aim to provide services without disruption expressing hope for assistance from foreign partners.

Prime minister Narendra Modi in a high level meeting with Solih discussed ways in which India can continue development partnership, particularly to help the new government in meeting its pledges to the people of the Maldives. Prime Minister Modi assured President Solih of India’s firm commitment in assisting the Maldives to achieve sustainable social and economic development.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean and being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region.

A 19 member cabinet of ministers was also sworn in to the new government where former speaker Abdulla Shahid is the new foreign minister.