President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has tonight refuted circulating rumors that utility prices would be increased to offset the costs of the government’s free canned fish distribution program. Speaking at an event in Kudahuvadhoo, he confirmed that electricity and water bill discounts will continue during this Ramadan, maintaining the same benefits as last year.

During his address at the ongoing ceremony in Dh. Kudahuvadhoo, the President accused opposition groups of spreading false information out of jealousy over the government’s successful implementation of public welfare initiatives.

“They first spread false rumors about reducing the quantity of fish in the cans. When that proved false after people started receiving their cases of canned fish, they began spreading new rumors about increasing utility bills to cover the distribution costs,” President Muizzu said. “No, we will continue to provide the same discounts on electricity and water bills during Ramadan as we did last year. How can there be any truth to claims of price increases?”

The President highlighted how these discounts have evolved since their initial implementation. During the first round of utility discounts last year, benefits were initially limited to the Gregorian calendar month that partially overlapped with Ramadan. However, following government intervention, the discount period was extended to the following month, and refunds were issued to those who had already paid their electricity bills at full rates.

The President’s statements come as part of broader efforts to address public concerns about utility costs and demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining support for citizens during the holy month of Ramadan.