Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has criticized President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for meeting residents only after two years in office, saying that true governance requires understanding public needs from the start.

Speaking at the PNF “Reset” rally at Artificial Beach, Yameen referred to the President’s recent neighborhood visits in the city, arguing that relying on research rather than direct engagement fails to capture the people’s real concerns. He said that leaders should gauge public sentiment from interactions with children, youth, and the elderly, and warned that asking people to submit notices to the President does not represent governance working closely with people.

Yameen also said that a president should integrate people’s needs into their manifesto and ensure institutions fulfill their responsibilities, rather than the President attempting to handle all matters personally.

Highlighting economic concerns, Yameen added that the country’s economy has been declining each year, challenging the government’s claims of economic stability. Yameen said it is impossible to convincingly claim progress when statistics indicate otherwise.