Maldives parties who accused Mohamed Muizzu of 'anti-India pivot' will boycott his parliamentary address today

The Maldives' two major opposition parties, the Maldivian Democratic Party and The Democrats Party are reportedly boycotting President Mohamed Muizzu's parliamentary address. This decision follows their criticism of Muizzu's perceived "anti-India pivot." The Maldivian Democratic Party, holding the majority, has not clarified the reason for the boycott, while The Democrats Party cites opposition to the reappointment of three ministers rejected by the parliament.

Scheduled for 9 a.m., President Muizzu's constitutional obligation requires him to address Parliament at the first session of the year, presenting the state of the nation and recommendations for improvements.

Amid a recent diplomatic dispute, the opposition parties labelled India as the Maldives' "most long-standing ally." They accused the current administration of a "stark pivot towards an anti-India stance," expressing concern about alienating a crucial development partner. The parties emphasized the need for stability and security in the Indian Ocean for the Maldives' overall stability and security.

The tensions escalated when the Maldivian government permitted a Chinese research and survey ship to dock at a Maldivian port. Additionally, disparaging comments against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Maldivian ministers led to a formal protest from New Delhi. Social media controversies ensued, prompting Indian celebrities to advocate boycotting visits to the Maldives. Despite the diplomatic tensions, India became the country's fifth-largest tourism market within three weeks.

Recently, the Maldivian Foreign Ministry announced India's decision to withdraw its 80 stationed soldiers by May, following an agreement reached during a high-level meeting in India. The departure of the first batch is set for March 10, with the complete withdrawal by May 10.

मोहम्मद मुइज़्ज़ु पर 'अंटी-इंडिया मुड़ाया' आरोप लगाने वाले मालदीव के दल उनके संसदीय संबोधन का बहिष्कार करेंगे।