Former Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih called President Muizzu “Stubborn” and  urged currenthim to engage in dialogue with neighboring countries to address financial challenges, criticizing Muizzu's perceived reluctance. Muizzu recently called on India for debt relief, sparking Solih's comments. Solih, defeated by Muizzu in last year's presidential election, expressed his views during an event in Male' supporting Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidates. He emphasized that financial difficulties weren't solely due to Indian loans.
According to Solih, the Maldives owes China MVR 18 billion, while India owes MVR 8 billion. The payback time is 25 years.
"But I have no doubt that our neighbors will pitch in. We need to have conversations instead of being obstinate. Numerous parties are available to assist us. However, Muizzu is unwilling to give in. It seems to me that the administration is only now beginning to grasp the issue," Solih remarked.

The former president accused the current government of deceiving the public by restarting projects initiated by the previous administration, stating that ministers are now attempting to cover up these actions with falsehoods. Relations between the Maldives and India have worsened since President Muizzu took office in November, with Muizzu openly criticizing India during and after the presidential campaign. He has demanded the complete withdrawal of 88 Indian military personnel stationed on aviation platforms used for humanitarian and medical evacuations by May 10. The first group of 26 military personnel has already departed, replaced by civilians.
Speaking to the media for the first time, Muizzu claimed he had avoided doing anything or saying anything that would be detrimental to the Maldives-Indian relationship. He declared that there was no question regarding India's standing as the Maldives' main ally. Muizzu's policy of reconciliation with India came before the Maldives' parliamentary elections, which are set for April 21.
Despite the fact that the new administration entered office four months ago, he has not yet traveled to India. According to the research, Maldivian presidents have always been to India as their first foreign destination. Nonetheless, Muizzu made his first state visit to China in January.
 

BOB Post