"The tide is now three to four times higher than it was 100 years ago," states scientist Dr Ali. The government attempted to deal with this threat by building a artificial island high above sea level. When the Tsunami struck, it used this opportunity to permanently re-house residents on the nine lowest lying islands. Unexpectedly, the President also released political prisoners and promised multi-party democracy. Critics claim this is just a cynical ploy to attract more aid. But released prisoners believe these changes will be permanent. "I don't see that things can be reversed. We've past the point of no return."