The opportunity for change; let's use it wisely!

The outcome of the first round of the presidential election has given us a unique opportunity to bring into power a united government of the people for the people.

The first round of the elections has shown to the people that, the Man for All Islands who used to get 'Commended reports' since the beginning could only barely get a 'Pass', and that also (reportedly) after cheating before and during the exam!

It has shown us that unlike in the past, the majority of the people are convinced and determined enough not to be succumbed to the temptations of financial and other offerings and ‘bribes’, despite their extremely difficult living conditions etc. It has shown that they are willing to not vote Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, an extremely bold step of overcoming the intimidations, harassments and threats to their sustenance and livelihood.

Thus the first round of the historic election has numerous positives, upon which we can and should build upon, in time, to realise the wishes of the majority of the people of the country, for the betterment of the entire country. It is imperative upon every single Maldivian who has wished for the current leadership to be changed, to stand up and do whatever he/she can (legally) do to materialise this very important milestone in the journey of change that we have embarked upon.

Hence it must be understood that, the vote we cast on 28 October 2008, is not a vote for bringing a particular person to the leadership role of the country, but a vote to form a combined team of leaders who have won the hearts and minds of thousands of fellow Maldivians. That it is a vote to win the leadership from the hands of the current incompetent, impotent ruler and hand it over to the very people who have proudly struggled for several years for the sake of the people. That it is a vote to lay a step forward, to change this country for the better.

Thus the importance of thinking and making the right decision cannot be emphasized enough. Too much is at stake for the people and the country, for us to even think of being complacent in making the right decision!

One must not forget, however, that it is not the usual case that the people of a country succeed in democratically voting out someone who has ruled for decades! It has not happened (as far as I know) in this world. Thus the task ahead of us is extremely difficult, and dangerous. However, hope must not be given up, even by a little bit, in this momentous task. Instead, we should work extremely hard with the combined force that we now have.

Once again, I sincerely call upon my dear fellow Maldivians to think carefully, and make the right decision – a decision that will have its direct and indirect effect on our children and the future generations…