President arrives in Faresmathoda at government expense for political activities

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has visited Faresmathoda at government expense and held political activities in the island.

He was in Faresmathoda yesterday to mark the country's 42nd Fishermen's Day. However, as part of his two-day official visit, the President met with MDP members from Faresmathoda today. The meeting was also attended by Economic Minister and MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.

While some pictures of the meeting were shared on the party's official Twitter account, the president was criticized by some for visiting the islands at the state's expense and carrying out political activities.

The President's Office said yesterday that the President's visit was to observe various activities being carried out in the island to mark Fishermen's Day. He also attended the official fishermen's day function held last night.

While MDP was in opposition, one of the main criticisms of former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's government has been the use of state resources by government officials. However, after assuming office, President Solih's administration has made a record in using state resources for political and personal uses.