MDP refuses to join government’s 20 year development plan process

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has announced that it will not participate in the government's efforts to develop a 20-year National Development Master Plan, citing concerns over transparency and governance.

The formulation of the long-term plan was a key pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, and the Cabinet gave the green light to begin work on it late last year.

As part of the planning process, Nexia Maldives, the consultancy firm appointed to lead public consultations, began field visits to islands this week. Ten consultation teams are expected to visit 186 islands before the end of the year, engaging with the public, stakeholders, and local businesses.

In a statement issued today, the MDP said that while it agrees on the importance of a long-term national development strategy, it is deeply concerned about the way the current government is conducting the process.

The party criticized the government for moving ahead with large-scale infrastructure projects, such as airport construction, without a clearly defined national plan. According to the MDP, many existing projects remain incomplete while new ones are being launched without coherence or coordination.

“We are not aware of how this 20-year plan is being formulated, nor who has been consulted. There’s no indication of transparency or strategic thinking,” the statement said.

The MDP also accused the government of violating the Constitution, undermining good governance, and weakening key regulatory frameworks, including environmental protection laws.

“There is no reason to believe that this plan, even if completed, will be implemented. The government’s actions so far suggest a lack of genuine intent,” the party stated.

Despite the criticism, the government plans to launch the master plan in January 2026, with all planning work expected to be completed by June next year. President Muizzu has previously stated that the plan will be granted legal authority once finalized.