New Delhi: The two principal opposition parties in the Maldives, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats, have expressed apprehension over the government’s foreign policy and transparency issues. Holding a combined total of 55 seats in the 87-member house, these parties, in a joint statement, declared India as their “most long-standing ally,” expressing concern about the Maldivian government’s perceived “anti-India stance.”
The opposition’s unease stems from the recent decision by the Maldivian government to allow a Chinese research and survey ship to dock at a Maldivian port for replenishment. The parties labeled this foreign policy move as “extremely detrimental” to the country’s long-term development. Tensions between India and the Maldives have escalated further due to President Mohamed Muizzu’s decision to prioritize a visit to Beijing over the traditional first port of call in New Delhi.
MDP’s Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, along with Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Ahmed Saleem, joined Democrats Party President Hassan Latheef and Parliamentary Group Leader Ali Azim in a joint press conference where they addressed various governance-related issues. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability and security in the Indian Ocean for the well-being of the Maldives, the opposition parties stressed the need for the government to collaborate with all development partners.
Beyond foreign policy concerns, the joint statement highlighted transparency issues in the state’s financial status and raised questions about the opacity surrounding Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and Agreements signed with foreign entities. The parties, without specifying any country, underscored the importance of working with development partners for the benefit of the Maldivian people.
The opposition, holding a significant majority in the house, pledged to collaborate on governance matters and denounced attempts to censor the media and interfere with press freedom. The statement, addressing these concerns, was shared on the official websites and social media handles of both the MDP and the Democrats.
In another development affecting India-Maldives relations, on January 14, an agreement was reached between India and the Maldives to expedite the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the island nation. This move follows a prominent promise made by President Mohammad Muizzu’s party during the recent Presidential elections. Approximately 70 Indian troops, along with a Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft and two HAL Dhruv helicopters, are currently stationed in the Maldives. Shortly after assuming office, Muizzu formally requested the Indian government to withdraw its military personnel. The withdrawal agreement was reported by the Maldives’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Joint Press Statement by the Maldivian Democratic Party and The Democrats.https://t.co/ioIfMd5Yyp pic.twitter.com/thHelqRM9K
— MDP Secretariat (@MDPSecretariat) January 24, 2024
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