Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called on the government to come to the negotiating table, warning that protests will continue indefinitely if the administration fails to do so.
Speaking outside the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) campaign hall in Male' last night, Nasheed stated that the Maldives, like other nations, is currently under a "cloud of war." He noted that Maldivians would feel the impact of rising commodity prices and the strengthening dollar resulting from the conflict in Iran.
"The Maldives is at a critical juncture. Overcoming this situation is not just the government's duty, but a responsibility for all of us. As you are aware, President Muizzu has completely lost the public's trust," Nasheed said.
Nasheed said the recent referendum results demonstrated the public's desire for political leaders to engage with them more frequently.
"These characteristics must be reflected in the Constitution; the country's structural framework needs to change. I am calling on the government and President Muizzu to come to the table and initiate dialogue," Nasheed said.
Nasheed emphasized that the country cannot be abandoned and that it is everyone's duty to ensure the rights, prosperity, and well-being of the Maldivian people.
"Come to the negotiating table, or we will remain on the streets in this effort indefinitely. We will also take this movement to the islands. We will persist until President Muizzu and the government agree to dialogue."
This marks the third time Nasheed has called for negotiations. However, President Mohamed Muizzu stated yesterday that he does not believe there is a need to enter into talks with the opposition.
Muizzu rejects any dialogue with the opposition
President Mohamed Muizzu has rejected calls from former President Mohamed Nasheed to engage in dialogue with the opposition regarding constitutional reforms. Muizzu stated that negotiating with other parties falls outside his public mandate.
Muizzu argued that negotiating with opposition parties falls outside the mandate given to him by the people.
"In my view, that is something outside the mandate given to me by the people. The mandate the people gave me was for a five-year term to carry out work in accordance with the manifesto and pledges I announced. Therefore, I will proceed with the work the people have entrusted to me," Muizzu said.
Nasheed has announced his candidacy for the upcoming MDP Chairperson election. He is contesting against Galolhu South MP Meekail Naseem and former party Vice President Alhan Fahmy.
The MDP has been carrying out nightly protests on the streets, claiming that the government has lost public confidence and support following the results of the recent local council elections and the referendum.
