On his final day in office, Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is to have addressed a deeply significant letter to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, offering guidance and wisdom as he passed on the responsibilities.

Solih made a special appearance on RaajjeTV’s ‘Fashaairu’ morning talk show on Sunday and spoke about the letter he addressed to the incumbent on his last day in office.

Solih said that he believes an outgoing leader should address a letter or at least a note, to their successor.

Solih considers it significant to have shared the experiences of his time in office and some other matters while he passed on the responsibilities to his successor.

In the letter President Solih addressed to President Muizzu on 17 November 2023, he stressed that the presidency of Maldives is both a great trust and a heavy responsibility. In his letter, he stated that whoever assumed office must serve the nation with sincerity, ensuring no citizen is discriminated against. Further, it shed light on the significance of prioritizing both Islam and the national interest in every decision.

In the handwritten letter, President Solih further conveyed that the presidency would inevitably bring multiple challenges. Specifically, he noted that there would be times when making decisions in line with one’s desires will be difficult and other moments when decisions that are not preferred must be made. The former president advised his successor that in these instances, the rights and interests of the people must always take precedence. Solih went on to remind Muizzu that as president, one is ultimately a servant of the people, and encouraged Muizzu to seek counsel in every important matter.

Before concluding the letter, the former president wished Muizzu success and prayed for peace to be bestowed upon the Maldives.

This was the first time Solih has spoken publicly about the contents of the special letter he wrote to Muizzu before handing over the reins of power.