Gov’t sought to redefine the national identity- Pres.

In his third Presidential Address, President Mohamed Nasheed has said this government sought to redefine the national identity.

The President underlined that the government was clear of vision of the nationality the people wanted.

“This government seeks to establish a completely new nationality. For us, the nationality that the people seek is very clear,” he said.

President Nasheed said that the government’s present vision for a new nationality is based on good Islamic principles, Maldivian culture, human rights, and on civil, social and economic progress.

“Today’s vision for a new nationality is complemented further by the presence of an integrated nation-wide transport system in the country and the, easy availability of affordable housing and shelter for all the people,” he added.

Restating that benefits of the government’s programmes were not targeted to only a particular group of people, the President reasserted that “this is the government of all Maldivians.”

He said in the country’s existence “today will be marked by the sun’s radiant, golden yellow rays that light up blue skies and bountiful seas, a day filled by the beautiful rich hues of nature. A new day that signifies the evergreen, trouble-free, joyful clean living.”

Addressing the People’s Majlis, as stipulated in the Article 84 of the Constitution, on the state of the nation, the President said 2010 was a year of achievements and marked improvements in various sectors.

The President underlined the establishment of local councils as the most important accomplishment despite the obstacles in the management of some of these local councils.

He said “the government’s aim is to solve these complications, in introducing decentralization in a manner that does not compromise the features of a unitary state stipulated in the Constitution.”

He said the speed at which the government’s policies were being implemented and the gratifying changes exerted from these policies directly translated into benefits and advantages to the people.

Continuing in this regard, the President said his “main appeal is for you to endeavor to instill trust and faith in the judicial system…and in the work of parliament.”

“I appeal for unity in the national interests and prioritize constructive judgment and wisdom to allow for peace, progress and order in our country, without being associated with those seeking abrupt opportunities to disrupt and topple the government,” the President added further.

Meanwhile, some political analysts have expressed their concern regarding the President’s statement “today will be marked by the sun’s radiant, golden yellow rays that light up blue skies” which they interpret as the colour Yellow of ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and colour Blue of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP). They say that this statement of the President denotes that the country has no room for other political parties.

However, others say that if this interpretation is true than the same goes for President’s use of “a new day that signifies the evergreen” indicates the colours of Adaalath Party and Gaumee Ittihaad Party.