While Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu was in India, pledging to strengthen “close and historic” ties, a parliamentary committee in the Maldives announced a review of three agreements signed by Muizzu’s predecessor, the pro-India leader Ibrahim Solih. The committee claims that these agreements violated the sovereignty of the Maldives.
“The parliament’s National Security Services Committee has decided to conduct a parliamentary inquiry to investigate actions undertaken by President Solih’s administration that undermined the sovereignty and independence of the Maldives,” said MP Ahmed Azaan of central Hithadhoo constituency, according to reports in Maldivian media. He proposed to commence a parliamentary inquiry, alleging that the previous government’s actions affected the country’s independence and sovereignty. The actions being investigated include an agreement for hydrographic surveys, another for building the Uthuru Thilafalhu dockyard built with grant assistance from India, and yet another for the Dornier aircraft gifted by India to Maldives defense forces for humanitarian, search, and rescue operations.
Last year, Muizzu’s government announced that it would not renew the agreement with the Indian Navy for joint hydrographic surveys in Maldivian waters. Following this, Muizzu participated in Modi’s swearing-in on Sunday and met President Murmu on Monday, expressing gratitude for India’s continuous assistance to the Maldives.
“He conveyed that he looks forward to further strengthening existing relations,” said his office.
Controversy erupted when three outspoken deputy ministers used offensive language in response to PM Modi’s social media posts about his trip to Lakshadweep. The posts celebrated the natural beauty of the islands and its potential as a tourist attraction for India. Former presidents Ibrahim Solih and Mohamed Nasheed strongly condemned the ministers’ remarks.