Gasim raises India influence in coalition talks; pres gives assurance of no threat

The issue of Indian influence in Maldives was the most raised by the Jumhoory Party (JP) leader Gasim Ibrahim during the talks with the MDP presidential candidate, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, for a coalition in the section round of the presidential election, reliable sources said on Wednesday. Following Gasim's concerns, the president has decided to give the information to Gasim to clarify the matter and assure him that there is no threat to the independence of the country.

President Solih visited Gasim's Sun Island resort on Wednesday to hold runoff coalition talks with Gasim, who won fifth place with 5,000 votes in Saturday's presidential election. The two held talks Thursday morning as well.

Although Gasim has given the green signal to form a coalition with the president, reliable sources told Atoll Times that during the talks, Gasim has expressed concern over the alleged influence of India on the government.

A reliable source familiar with the talks, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Atoll Times on Thursday that Gasim expressed concern over the agreements signed by the government with India.

"The most important thing that Honourable Gasim Ibrahim mentioned during the talks was the issue of Indian influence. Therefore, the president has given assurances that the agreements will not undermine the independence of the country," he said.

Along with the assurance, the president had said, it is learnt, that he will convey the information regarding the agreements to Gasim, as proof.

It is learned that the president has entrusted foreign minister Abdulla Shahid with sharing the information with Gasim.

It is not clear whether the agreements are being shown to Gasim or whether a presentation is made. However, the decision was made to provide information in some form.

Official results of Saturday's presidential election show main opposition PPM-PNC's Dr Mohamed Muizz leading the polls with 46%, while President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih secured 39%.

The PPM-PNC is also in talks to form a coalition with Gasim in the second round. The two sides held discussions on Tuesday. However, neither side has disclosed much about the meeting.