Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has alleged that his predecessor, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, operated under the influence of a foreign ambassador. However, Muizzu refrained from specifying the country or diplomat involved. The accusation emerged during an interview with the Public Service Media (PSM) on Thursday evening local time, where Muizzu was addressing criticism from the opposition regarding recent military drone procurements.Maldivian Democratic Party lashes out on MuizzuThe Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the main opposition ahead of parliamentary elections, has intensified attacks on Muizzu over various issues.Earlier this month, it was revealed that Maldives procured surveillance drones from Turkey for monitoring its extensive exclusive economic zone, with plans underway to establish a drone base in Noonu Atoll Maafaru for military operations.Responding to criticisms regarding drones, President Muizzu pointed out that during MDPs tenure from 2018-2023, the party held a parliamentary supermajority. However, Muizzu claimed the party failed to safeguard Maldives independence, accusing the previous administration of yielding to foreign influence.According to the news portal Sun.mv, Muizzu stated that President Solih acted on orders from a foreign ambassador, causing extensive harm. Nonetheless, he did not specify the foreign nation implicated. Muizzu emphasized the loss of independence, including economic autonomy, under the previous governments tenure.Maldives to improve maritime surveillanceMuizzus remarks come in the context of efforts to reinforce Maldives maritime surveillance capabilities. He announced plans to establish a 24/7 monitoring system for Maldivian waters to assert control over its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), despite its vast expanse. Regarding drone costs, Muizzu asserted that certain military matters, crucial to national security, are not subject to public disclosure.Addressing accusations of diplomatic bias, Muizzu reiterated the significance of Maldives sovereignty, labeling it priceless. The Peoples National Congress (PNC) administration, currently in power, accuses the former government of over-reliance on India, while the MDP criticizes the current administration for straining historical ties with India in favor of closer relations with China.
