The campaign team supporting President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih, the ruling MDP’s presidential candidate, has once again leveled allegations against Dr. Mohamed Muizz, the main opposition PPM-PNC’s presidential candidate, by linking him to the religious conservative group Jamiyyath al-Salaf.
In a recent 30-minute press conference held at the presidential campaign office within the Shinetree Building, Mariya Ahmed Didi, spokesperson for the ‘Ibu Aslam 2023’ campaign, reiterated MDP’s assertions about Muizz’s affiliation with Salaf. Mariya further elaborated on the claims, shedding light on Muizz’s political history and affiliations.
According to Mariya, Muizz’s political journey includes stints with several parties: “From 2008 to 2010, Muizz was in the JP. From 2010 to 2012, he was a member of the Adhaalath Party. From 2012 to 2013, he was in the National Alliance Party. From 2013 until late last month, he was then in the PPM; he was elected mayor of Male while serving as Vice President of the PPM. Within 24 hours, he signed up to PPM’s affiliate PNC, contested and won the party’s ticket.”
Mariya highlighted Muizz’s apparent propensity for adapting his identity to fit the context, likening it to an octopus changing its appearance. She went on to emphasize that despite Muizz’s claims of potentially releasing former President Abdullah Yameen, who is currently incarcerated due to an 11-year jail sentence, there is no legal basis for such an action.
Drawing attention to public perception, Mariya expressed that Muizz is widely regarded as a candidate aligned with the Salaf organization. She attributed this perception to the fact that those supporting Muizz are seen as supporters of Salaf as well.
Mariya also pointed out that the Salaf group is reportedly seeking the education portfolio, raising concerns about potential implications for women’s rights and freedoms if a candidate with Salaf affiliations were to assume power.
Throughout the press conference, Mariya reiterated the MDP’s view that Muizz is linked to Salaf, highlighting how this perception is prevalent among the public. This consistent narrative underscores the MDP’s apprehensions regarding Muizz’s political stance and potential policy implications.
