Abdulla Shahid, the main opposition leader in the Maldives, has refuted claims suggesting that India played a role in his recent appointment as the president of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), as reported by the Sun Online news outlet.
The allegations emerged after Shahid, aged 61, assumed the new position without undergoing an election process last week. In response, Shahid criticized the government officials making these accusations, stating that they often use India as a scapegoat to discredit his efforts. He emphasized that the extent of their narrative is such that they might even attribute his birth to Indian influence.
While asserting his political independence, Shahid emphasized that his achievements are not a result of external interference from any party or power. He urged the present government to acknowledge his capabilities and acknowledge his political contributions.
Shahid's remarks come shortly after he dismissed President Mohamed Muizzu's assertions regarding "thousands of Indian military personnel," labeling them as falsehoods. He clarified that there are no armed foreign soldiers stationed in the Maldives.
Addressing the issue of foreign relations, Shahid emphasized the historical, cultural, and multifaceted ties between the Maldives and India. He highlighted India's crucial support during significant crises such as the 2004 tsunami and the 2020 pandemic, stressing that despite any foreign policy adjustments, the Maldives cannot afford to distance itself from India as a regional ally.
Despite being perceived as pro-China, President Muizzu, following his victory in the country's presidential election in November 2023, pledged to remove Indian troops from the Maldives. He recently announced plans to repatriate the first group of Indian military personnel before March 10, with the remaining expected to be withdrawn by May 10.
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