Yameen Expresses Disappointment Over Handling of Indian Military Presence Removal
Photo: The President’s Office
Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, currently under house arrest due to a bribery and money laundering conviction, has voiced his disappointment regarding the government’s approach to removing Indian military presence in the country.
Yameen, associated with the newly formed People’s Nation Front (PNF) following a dispute with the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), shared his views during a recent PNF gathering where he participated as a general member, adhering to prison and parole guidelines.
Despite serving an 11-year prison sentence and being prohibited from holding a leading position in any political party or organisation, Yameen attended the event, responding to questions through his senior legal representative, Dr. Mohamed Jameel.
During the gathering, Yameen highlighted the government’s initial commitment to swiftly remove Indian troops from Maldives, expressing disappointment over perceived wavering in current efforts. He cited a statement by Presidential Office Minister Abdulla Nazim, who acknowledged the complexities of expelling the troops, leading Yameen to express dismay.
Yameen remarked, “It is very disheartening to hear these words from a Minister of the President’s Office of a government that came with immense courage and resolve to remove the Indian troops from Maldives. Nothing will be easy.”
In response to Nazim’s assertion that the removal process must align with diplomatic procedures and legal frameworks, Yameen conveyed his uncertainty, claiming that despite Maldives notifying India to withdraw its troops, no such information had been reported in Indian newspapers.
Contrary to Yameen’s assertions, the Maldivian State announced during a recent meeting with India that President Dr. Mohamed Muizz implored the Indian government to withdraw their troops before 16th March. While the Maldives Foreign Ministry revealed progress in discussions, the Indian government has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
