Ibrahim Mohamed Solih Critiques President Muizzu's Shift on India Relations Amid Past Objections

Former Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has criticised the current administration led by President Mohammad Muizzu. Solih pointed out that Muizzu is continuing with agreements that his party, the People’s National Congress (PNC), had previously labelled as threats to national security during the 2023 presidential campaign. Solih highlighted this contradiction, questioning the promises made by Muizzu during his campaign.

Muizzu, who assumed office last November, initially campaigned on an 'India Out' platform. Shortly after taking office, he requested the repatriation of Indian military personnel from three platforms in the Maldives. Despite this stance, Muizzu recently expressed gratitude for India's financial support and assistance during challenging times, following a five-day state visit to India.

Maldives-India Initiatives

Solih noted that Muizzu now supports several initiatives between Maldives and India that were started during the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) administration. These include projects like developing a harbour and dockyard at the Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF) military base and expanding Hanimaadhoo airport. Solih mentioned that these initiatives were previously opposed by Muizzu's party.

During the MDP’s ‘Laamarukazee Gulhun’ conference in Kulhudhuffushi City, Solih criticised Muizzu's earlier claims about India. He stated, "What did they not say about our neighbouring countries? About the leaders of these countries? What filth did they not spread? The damage they caused this country and its people with this is incalculable."

Controversial Projects

Solih recalled accusations from PNC officials during his administration's attempt to develop Hanimaadhoo airport. They claimed there were armed Indian soldiers on the island. However, he noted that these claims have vanished as PNC members recently visited to claim the new runway built there.

The UTF agreement was another point of contention. Solih explained that it was initiated to enhance the Maldives National Defence Force’s capabilities with Indian support. At the time, PNC accused it of being a move to establish an Indian naval base in Maldives and protested against it.

Diplomatic Relations

Solih also mentioned objections from PNC regarding plans to build an Indian consulate in Addu, which they described as a listening post for India's foreign intelligence agency, RAW. Despite these objections, the projects continue without changes to agreements made during Solih's administration.

As Muizzu concluded his first state visit to India from October 6 to 10, opposition parties criticised his administration as "naive and inexperienced." They argued that diplomacy cannot be based on "lies and deceit." Former president Mohamed Nasheed echoed this sentiment, calling India and Maldives natural partners.

The relationship between India and Maldives has faced challenges recently. Two Maldivian ministers mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photographs of Lakshadweep Islands in January. This led to a boycott by Indian tourists, causing Maldives to drop from its top tourism spot post-Covid to sixth place by mid-2024.

The evolving dynamics between Maldives and India highlight complex diplomatic relations. While past tensions have strained ties, recent developments suggest a shift towards cooperation. The continuation of projects initiated under previous administrations indicates a possible reconciliation of interests between the two nations.