Opposition prepares impeachment motion against Maldivian president: Report
What's the story
The Maldives's main opposition party—the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)—has gathered enough signatures to submit a motion to impeach President Mohamed Muizzu, local media said. The MDP also holds a majority in the Maldivian parliament. The Sun, in a report, quoted an MDP lawmaker as saying that his party and the Democrats have collected signatures from 34 members for an impeachment motion against Muizzu.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The development comes amid a diplomatic row between India and the Maldives and the island nation's growing affinity toward China. Muizzu won the 2023 elections on the back of an anti-India stance, a shift away from his predecessors' pro-India approach. The India-Maldives row was triggered after some Maldivian politicians posted derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he shared photos of his Lakshadweep visit.
Details
Security strengthened in parliament
Meanwhile, security arrangements were strengthened in the parliament ahead of Monday's session. A video shared by a media outlet showed police personnel gathering outside the parliament complex, carrying protective shields. This came in response to a clash among political leaders inside the House a day earlier. On Sunday, a fight broke out between MPs of different parties and the speakers. The clash interrupted the session and delayed a crucial vote on parliamentary approval for the Muizzu government.
What Next?
Opposition parties criticize anti-India pivot
Recently, the MDP and Democrats released a joint press statement criticizing the Muizzu government's anti-India shift in foreign policy. They labeled it "extremely detrimental" to the country's long-term development. The opposition also said that the "stability and security in the Indian Ocean is vital to the stability and security of the Maldives." The joint statement was in response to the Maldivian administration's announcement earlier this month that a Chinese ship will be docking at their port.