Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel on Wednesday refused to say whether the “India Out” campaign, led by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) and Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) while in opposition, was wrong.
Khaleel was questioned on the matter by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) lawmakers after being summoned to parliament. He confirmed that he had joined “India Out” protests but said he had never attended a rally wearing a T-shirt with the campaign slogan.
When MP Ameen Faisal asked directly whether he believed the campaign was wrong, Khaleel avoided a direct answer. Instead, he accused the MDP of acting to the detriment of the country when in opposition.
“To protect self-interest, we should not do anything that will damage the country and the people,” Khaleel said.
The “India Out” campaign was one of the most prominent political movements against a neighbouring country in recent Maldivian history. During the campaign, President Mohamed Muizzu repeatedly labelled India as the biggest threat to the Maldives, claiming the country was enslaved to its neighbour.
After winning the presidency with support from the campaign, Muizzu distanced the Maldives from India, moved to strengthen ties with China and Turkey, and made remarks perceived as critical of New Delhi. However, the government has since sought to repair relations with India amid a worsening financial crisis, in a move away from its earlier position.