Protests at resorts are driven by politics: Tourism Minister

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Adheeb has said that the recent protests at resorts are driven by politics, and that they are part of campaigns for the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office today, Adheeb said that protests have been held at resorts prior to parliamentary elections in the past.

“A political organisation arranges these protests at resorts. This happens before every parliamentary election,” he said.

He said that resort staff should engage in dialogue to solve problems, or file complaints to the Tourism Ministry or relevant authorities.

He said that the ministry had not received any complaints.

Adheeb said that such protests can have serious negative effect on investor confidence.

“Protesting in resorts is prohibited. The government will take necessary action before such activities destroy the economy,” he said.

Staff of Reethi Rah Resort went on strike yesterday, and protests have been held at various resorts lately.

Adheeb also criticised the delay by the parliament in passing the government’s bills proposing to increase revenue.

“The State Budget has been increased several fold, and delays in passing these bills result in cash flow problems for the government,” he said.

He said that the government is holding discussions with Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), and trying to find other ways to solve these problems.