I Can Criticize Foreign Policy, This Is Not Muizzu’s Personal State: Nasheed

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has said he has the right to criticize the government’s foreign policy, stressing that the Maldives does not belong solely to President Mohamed Muizzu and his administration.

Nasheed made the remarks in response to a statement issued by the government after he commented on the Maldives’ foreign relations and warned against rhetoric that could weaken ties with other countries.

Last week, while attending the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue in New Delhi, India, Nasheed spoke to Indian media outlets regarding the Maldives’ foreign relations. Following those comments, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying remarks made by former senior state officials that could undermine diplomatic relations may have undesirable consequences.

Responding to the government’s statement in a post on X today, Nasheed said:

“The Maldives belongs to all Maldivians. It is not a country owned by Dr. Muizzu’s government, which has less than 30 percent support.”

He was referring to the results of a recent public opinion poll conducted last month.

Nasheed also reiterated comments previously made to Indian media, stating that financial aid and loans provided by friendly nations must be used responsibly by the government. According to Nasheed, criticizing government policies is a necessary part of democratic political discourse.

The Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, stated that the government’s “Maldives First” policy is aimed at protecting national interests in line with international norms. The ministry also urged former senior officials to exercise caution when speaking publicly about the Maldives’ relations with foreign countries.