Mariya says Solih prioritised others over MDP in cabinet choices
Mariya said MDP members worked to bring the party to power but were dissatisfied with some appointments made after the government was formed.
Former Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi criticised the composition of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s cabinet during a campaign gathering on Monday night.
Mariya made the remarks at an event held at Galolhu junction by supporters of former President Mohamed Nasheed, who is contesting for the chairpersonship of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
Nasheed is competing against Member of Parliament Meekail Ahmed Naseem, who has received backing from Solih.
Addressing supporters, Mariya said MDP members worked to bring the party to power but were dissatisfied with some appointments made after the government was formed.
She referred to the appointment of Ali Zahir of the Adhaalath Party as Chief of Staff at the President’s Office, saying party members felt access to the President was restricted.
Mariya also criticised the appointment of Aishath Nahula as Transport Minister. Nahula is married to Qasim Ibrahim of the Jumhooree Party.
She further referred to the appointment of Sheikh Imran Abdulla, then leader of the Adhaalath Party, as Home Minister.
Mariya said that during Nasheed’s administration, priority had been given to MDP members and that coalition arrangements were later ended.
She also alleged that figures involved in the fall of the 2008 MDP government are now supporting Meekail’s campaign, though she did not name individuals.
Mariya argued that electing Meekail as chairperson would allow others to take control of the party.
