Opposition parties rallied on Friday against Indian military engagement in the Maldives under numerous defense agreements.
The opposition alliance, PPM and PNC, organized the “Freedom” protest in Male’ City, which drew a large crowd. The two-hour demonstration ended at 6 p.m. on Friday in front of the PPM headquarters near Artificial Beach.
During the march, which was attended by key PPM/PNC coalition leaders, PNC leader Abdul Raheem Abdulla stated that the gathering was not “politically motivated,” but rather a demonstration by the public to express their views.
“This is a group of people sharing their opinions. We are saying that the Maldivian people do not want a foreign military presence on their soil,” he said.
He also stated that the Maldivian people would safeguard the country’s independence, and that the Maldivian military and police will ensure the country’s security and safety.
Abdul Raheem demanded that the government withdraw any Indian military forces stationed in Hanimaadhoo, Uthuru Thilafalhu, or anywhere in the nation, adding that this is not a minority opinion, as evidenced by the rally.
Male’ Mayor Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Maduvvari MP Adam Shareef, and former Islamic Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem all joined the demonstration against Indian military presence in the country.
