After returning to Maldives on completion of my studies at Malaysia, I thought I’d visit Addu as it is where I was born and where I am from. And the main purpose of visiting Addu is not only to see the changes and developments, but also to learn the political situation at the islands of Addu. When ever I went to the harbor, or a café people blabber about the upcoming election. I spend most of my time at Hulhudhoo (where I am from), and brief moments at Meedhoo and Feydhoo. With in this brief time I was able to spend time with some elderly people understanding their thinking and feelings regarding the current political situation.
Most of them are indecisive about who they will vote in the next election. But one thing most of them were certain about is that they need a change. And most of them are affirm, that they will not vote the current president. Some said that Gayyom did certainly brought development to the atoll, while others argued that he developed only Male’ and completely ignored atolls except during the days of elections. But no matter what they believed, they all are in need for a change.
One thing that amazed me most was; I met certain people whom I had met about three years back. During that time, these people almost ‘worshipped’ Gayyom, and believed that without Gayyom Maldives would be void and believed that there is no other person who could rule Maldives. And during that time if they hear something against Gayyom it would go to limits that they would ‘commit crime’.
Today, their mentality has changed. With the introduction of freedom of speech people have become more civilized. Now they understand their own needs, and they see the differences between atolls and atolls, islands and islands. Now they understand that a promise to make a harbor is only a deception to acquire a vote. And now they do understand why the voices increase, and promises increase when it is time for elections. And they do understand that an Rf500/- note is one days pleasure, but a good leader is the pathway for a brighter future.
Addu will vote for a change!
-thadu-
yes! surely we will vote for a change