In the picturesque paradise of the Maldives, where azure waters and white sandy beaches are a way of life, a new leader is set to emerge. Mohamed Muizzu, the President-elect of the Maldives, is poised to take office on November 17, 2023, marking a significant turning point in the nation's political landscape. His journey from an accomplished engineer to a prominent political figure is a testament to his commitment to the betterment of the Maldives.
President-Elect Dr Mohamed Muizzu
Full Name: Mohamed Muizzu
Date of Birth: 15 June 1978
Educational Background
Muizzu's academic journey reflects a strong foundation in structural and civil engineering. He pursued his higher education in the United Kingdom, a testament to his commitment to academic excellence. He earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Structural Engineering at the University of London. But it was his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Civil Engineering at the University of Leeds that truly set him on a path of innovation and leadership. His PhD thesis, titled "Thermal and time-dependent effects on monolithic reinforced concrete roof slab-wall joints," was awarded in 2009, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to the field.
Political Background
Mohamed Muizzu embarked on his political career in 2012, when he assumed the role of Minister of Housing and Environment during President Waheed's administration as a member of the Adhaalath Party (AP). His journey didn't stop there. In the aftermath of the 2013 Presidential Election, he continued to serve as a cabinet minister under President Abdulla Yameen's administration, heading the Ministry of Housing and Environment, which was later restructured and renamed as the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure during his five-year term in office.
But it was his pivotal involvement in overseeing significant infrastructure projects that truly earned him recognition. One notable achievement was the iconic Sinamalé Bridge, which served as a vital connection, linking the capital city, Malé, to the Velana International Airport on Hulhulé and extending further to the planned new city of Hulhumalé.
Under Muizzu's leadership, multiple infrastructure initiatives were successfully completed, including the construction of harbors, jetties, parks, mosques, public buildings, sporting facilities, and roads. Muizzu is also recognized for introducing modern asphalt paving techniques for the streets of Malé, departing from traditional paving blocks, and implementing contemporary building and maintenance codes.
In 2019, Mohamed Muizzu assumed a crucial leadership role within the opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) as the Vice-President of the party and the head of the Elections Department. His influence and impact on Maldivian politics continued to grow.
In 2021, he contested and secured a decisive victory in the mayoral election for the capital city, defeating the candidate from the ruling party. Presently, Mohamed Muizzu holds the position of Mayor for the capital city of Maldives.
Following the incarceration of opposition leader Abdulla Yameen, Muizzu was nominated as the presidential candidate by the People's National Congress, a component of the opposition coalition. In the first round of the 2023 Maldivian presidential election, he achieved the highest number of votes, garnering 46.06% of the total votes cast, advancing to the second round on September 30, 2023. He was elected as President in the second round, winning with 54.04% of the vote against the incumbent president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
As the President-elect, Mohamed Muizzu carries the hopes and expectations of the Maldivian people into the future. His journey from a structural engineer to a political leader has been one of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of his nation. With the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, the Maldives looks to the leadership of Mohamed Muizzu as it steps into a new era.
