Vice President Abdulla Jihad has, on Tuesday, met with Malé-resident population from Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo.

The meeting was held at Ahmadhiyya School, on Tuesday evening.

According to the President's Office, the VP spoke to them regarding the "ongoing projects undertaken by the Administration for the development of the island."

Minister of Home Affairs, Azleen Ahmed; Villimalé constituecy MP, Ahmed Nihan; North-Thinadhoo MP Saudulla Hilmee; Minister at the President’s Office Ahmed Zuhoor; State Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Ahmed Habeeb; and Vice President of the Anti-Corruption Commission Muaviz Rasheed accompanied the VP.

While the population of Thinadhoo is around 14,000, an estimated 6,400 people reside there currently, with the rest scattered across the country, including the capital Malé City.

The island was formerly called Havaru Thinadhoo, and its name was officially changed on June 27, 1979, by then president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. Thinadhoo is the capital of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, or Huvadhoo Atoll- its geographical name.

Vice President Jihad's public appearance comes days after pro-government MP, Mohamed Musthafa criticized him for his absence in public, alleging that was essentially under ‘house arrest'.