Two Opposition Parties Boycott Maldive’s Presidential Statement

Today, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, known for his anti-India stance, spoke in the parliament during the first session of the year. Mihaaru newspaper reports that the two primary opposition parties, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats, have chosen to refrain from attending the presidential statement.

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MDP has not disclosed the reason behind their decision to skip the presidential address, whereas The Democrats have cited the re-appointment of three ministers previously rejected by parliament.

The Maldives Constitution mandates that the President addresses the parliament during the initial session each year, providing an overview of the nation’s status and offering recommendations for addressing prevailing situations.

President Muizzu’s Criticism Regarding His Anti-India Stance

President Muizzu’s presidential address coincides with a period of criticism regarding his anti-India stance. His election campaign centred on diminishing Indian influence in Maldivian affairs. Shortly after assuming office, he visited China and held discussions with President Xi Jinping.

A significant source of disagreement between India and the Maldives, traditional allies, revolves around the presence of around 80 Indian soldiers in the island nation.

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As per a Reuters report, the Maldives foreign ministry has announced that India is set to withdraw its troops by May. The initial batch of Indian troops is scheduled to depart by March 10, with the remaining contingent leaving by May 10. This decision stems from an agreement reached during a meeting in New Delhi.

According to Reuters, the External Affairs Ministry has stated that both nations have agreed upon a series of practical solutions to facilitate the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms, which deliver humanitarian services to the Maldives.

President Muizzu’s anti-India stance has faced criticism domestically. The MDP and The Democrats have jointly released a statement characterizing the change in the island nation’s foreign policy as “highly damaging.”