With the opposition's high-profile mass protest set to ignite the capital after sundown on Friday, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has moved swiftly to announce the release of long-overdue government payments to businesses, marking his third such pledge this year.

Taking to social media platform ‘X’, the president committed to settling all outstanding dues owed by the government and state-owned enterprises within the next five weeks. The announcement comes just hours before the main opposition Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) stages a major rally accusing the administration of widespread corruption and financial mismanagement.

This latest deadline follows two previous, unmet promises: one to clear payments before the fasting month of Ramadan, and another by November 2024. Both deadlines came and went without resolution, raising doubts over the credibility of the government’s financial commitments.

As tensions mount ahead of Friday’s protest, the government has ramped up its response, announcing civil service salary hikes and renewing assurances to the nation’s fishermen. Critics argue these moves are a calculated attempt to pacify public discontent and undercut opposition momentum.

Security forces are also on high alert. A special strategy meeting involving top police and military officials has been held, while the Maldives Police Service (MPS) has warned of potential unrest and disruptions linked to the protest. The government’s intensified posture signals concern over the scale and impact of the gathering.

Adding to the pressure, the Adhaalath Party (AP) has confirmed its participation in the demonstration, joining forces with MDP in what is being described as a united front against what opposition leaders call the incumbent’s systemic "looting" of the country.

With rising economic frustration, political promises unfulfilled, and opposition voices growing louder, the stage is set for a volatile night in the capital, one that could define the Muizzu administration’s grip on public trust.