Govt support at 30%; opposition can criticise foreign policy: Nasheed

Former President Mohamed Nasheed said on Sunday that opposition parties have the right to criticise the government’s foreign policy and stated that the Maldives “belongs to all its citizens”.

Nasheed made the remarks in response to a statement issued on Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The ministry’s statement followed comments made by Nasheed during an interview with an Indian media outlet, where he alleged that the current administration was mismanaging financial assistance and loans provided by foreign countries, including India.

In its statement, the ministry said remarks made by former senior state officials on matters relating to foreign policy and diplomacy could carry international implications.

The ministry also stated that public discourse on such matters should promote national unity and strengthen confidence in state institutions.

It further urged caution when discussing issues linked to national interests and diplomatic relations.

Responding in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Nasheed said scrutiny of government policy is a central responsibility of opposition political parties.

“The Maldives belongs to all its citizens. It is not the Maldives of President Dr. Muizzu's government, which holds less than 30% support,” Nasheed wrote.

He also stated that financial assistance and loans provided by friendly countries should be managed responsibly and with accountability.

In addition to his comments on foreign assistance, Nasheed also spoke to Maldivian journalists after returning from India, where he discussed efforts to restore diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Mauritius.