Rifts between president, speaker, Yameen alleges

Former President Abdulla Yameen on Monday accused the ruling coalition, the Progressive National Congress (PNC) and the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), of being divided into two factions, one led by President Mohamed Muizzu and the other by Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem.

Speaking at his party office, Yameen claimed that the handling of a parliamentary committee decision regarding the staff assigned to Speaker Abdul Raheem's official residence exposed a rift between Abdul Raheem and Muizzu. According to Yameen, two factions, one supporting President Muizzu and the other loyal to Speaker Abdul Raheem, are operating within the ruling alliance. 

"Abdul Raheem left for Geneva for an IPU (Inter-Parliamentary Union) meeting. While he was away, parliament made decisions on this matter in two ways. This reveals that Muizzu and AbdulRaheem represent two distinct factions," Yameen said, pointing to what he perceives as disunity among the leadership.

The 241 Committee of the Parliament initially decided to keep the number of staff members employed at Speaker Abdul Raheem’s official residence confidential.

However, following a request from President Muizzu, the committee reversed its decision and approved the public disclosure of the information.

Yameen criticised the government’s inconsistent policy-making and expressed disappointment, particularly concerning institutions responsible for national security.

"Changing such decisions damages public trust in key institutions like the Ministry of Defense. These decisions need to be solid and well thought-out, especially in matters related to national security," Yameen remarked, expressing concern over the Ministry's reversal of its initial stance on secrecy.

Speaker Abdul Raheem relocated to Muraidhooge, a state-owned residence, on July 25 after extensive renovations. The government designated this special residence for the Speaker of Parliament following the May 9, 2021 bombing, which targeted former President Mohamed Nasheed during his tenure as Speaker of Parliament.

Along with the move, appointments have been made within Muraidhooge. Adam Haleem, a prominent journalist known as Mundoo Adam Haleem, was appointed Chief of Staff in late July. Additionally, Ali Ashfaq, one of the most celebrated football personalities in the Maldives, was appointed last month.