Yameen Criticises Current Government’s Approach to India

Former President Abdullah Yameen has claimed that India’s influence in the Maldives has increased under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, likening him to former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and referring to him as “Solih-2.”

Yameen criticised Muizzu’s visit to India, arguing that he failed to address key issues that could benefit the Maldives. One significant topic could have been the potential forgiveness or postponement of substantial loans extended by India. Yameen also highlighted the issue of recovering maritime territory lost during the division of the Chagos Archipelago as part of Mauritius, noting Mauritius’s close ties with India.

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Yameen alleged that India provided loans to support Solih’s administration, stating, “They wanted to maintain that government. However, Allah’s decision and destiny became stronger than that. There is no change; the same Solih is here.” He contended that Muizzu is implementing Solih’s policies more vigorously than before, questioning the rationale for India’s apparent approval of Muizzu’s visit.

Despite his criticisms of India, Yameen asserted the importance of a respectful relationship between the two nations. “Even then, we knew India first, and now we know India first policy is not an issue,” he stated.

Umar Naseer Accuses Muizzu of Surrendering to India’s Demands Like MDP Gov’t

Former Home Minister Umar Naseer also accused President Muizzu of acquiescing to India’s demands similar to the previous Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government. 

Following the PPM/PNC’s ‘India Out’ campaign, which called for the withdrawal of Indian troops, Naseer expressed disappointment that the current administration appears to be collaborating closely with India.

During his state visit to India, Muizzu met with Narendra Modi to discuss expanding bilateral relations. Umar Naseer remarked on social media that this marked the first time a Maldivian leader openly violated a campaign promise, arguing there is little distinction between the MDP and PNC governments.

Umar Naseer also alleged that the current government failed to fulfil its promise to withdraw Indian troops, instead agreeing to replace them with civilians. Following the ‘India Out’ campaign, the Maldives announced the withdrawal of all Indian troops.

Critics have previously labelled this arrangement as effectively reintroducing foreign troops under a different guise. During Muizzu’s visit, a USD 400 million currency swap agreement was signed, and the Indian Rupee card was launched in the Maldives.

In contrast to previous administrations, Muizzu undertook his first official visit to China after taking office. Historically, many former presidents have prioritised India for their initial foreign trips. Upon his return from China, Muizzu made remarks that appeared critical of India, which had strained relations following derogatory comments made about Modi by three deputy ministers on social media. However, relations have improved since then, particularly after Muizzu attended Modi’s swearing-in ceremony for a third term.