Govt can't avoid India Out campaign, ex-FM Shahid says
Shahid alleged inconsistencies in the government’s stance.
Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said on Monday that the India Out campaign launched by the PPM-PNC coalition during their time in opposition cannot be ignored now that they are in power.
During a recent visit to India, Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel spoke against the India Out campaign. Addressing Khaleel’s remarks at a press conference held at the MDP party office, Shahid alleged inconsistencies in the government’s stance.
"They are falsely claiming that they had no involvement in the India Out campaign. However, evidence such as photos, videos, and T-shirts they wore at the time tells a different story," Shahid said.
He further alleged that the government has misled both India and the Maldivian people regarding the campaign. He criticised the leaders for their previous actions and current diplomatic engagements in India, which he characterised as contradictory.
Shahid also pointed out that promises made before coming to power, such as exposing alleged agreements with India that undermined sovereignty, have not been fulfilled. He emphasised that no such agreements have been disclosed for more than a year.
He went on to criticise other claims made by the government, including:
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Allegations of selling parts of the southern sea area and acquiring Chagos, which he said are unsubstantiated.
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The increase in political appointees from 700 to 5,000.
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Failure to deliver on promises of housing and land distribution.
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A lack of transparency in financial statements.
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Unfulfilled promises regarding tax rates, banning Israeli passports, and responding to RTI submissions.
Shahid also accused the government of widespread theft, rapid constitutional amendments, and blocking parliamentarians' work to push through legislative changes.
"The people are saying enough is enough. That is why we are taking the initiative on the 31st of this month," Shahid stated.
The MDP announced plans for a street rally under the theme “Enough is Enough” on January 31. Shahid, along with party spokesperson Anas Abdul Sattar, outlined activities planned nationwide ahead of the rally. They also invited other political parties to participate in the event.
