New Delhi, March 30, 2024 | Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has stirred controversy with allegations that his predecessor, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, operated under the influence of a “foreign ambassador,” signaling strained relations between the Maldives and India.
Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, made these remarks during an interview with state-run Public Service Media (PSM), refraining from explicitly naming any country. However, his comments, coupled with recent demands for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel, suggest implications towards India.
During his tenure, Solih, who served as president from 2018 to 2023, allegedly acted on the directives of a foreign ambassador, resulting in significant repercussions, according to Muizzu. This statement follows criticism of Muizzu’s decision to procure military drones from Turkiye.
While not specifying the country in question, Muizzu lamented the loss of independence, both economically and politically, under Solih’s administration, implying undue influence from external sources.
Solih’s term saw the implementation of an “India First” policy, benefiting from India’s “Neighbourhood First” initiative with substantial investments in development projects. Muizzu’s election campaign in 2023 included promises to expel Indian military personnel deployed in the Maldives, citing sovereignty concerns.
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), under Solih, faced criticism from Muizzu for allegedly compromising the country’s independence. However, Muizzu refrained from explicitly naming the foreign country influencing Maldivian affairs.
In matters concerning national security, Muizzu emphasized the importance of transparency while acknowledging the confidentiality of certain military information, including the cost of military equipment.
The Indian response to Muizzu’s pro-China stance has been cautious, with policymakers closely monitoring the growing ties between Male and Beijing, especially in trade and security cooperation.
As political tensions rise, with accusations traded between the People’s National Congress (PNC) administration and the MDP, the Maldives’ strategic alignment between India and China remains a focal point of regional geopolitics.
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