The opposition coalition of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and People's National Congress (PNC) in the Maldives has held a meeting with officials from the Commonwealth to express their concerns regarding the upcoming presidential elections.
During the meeting, PNC Vice President and Maavashu MP Mohamed Saeed highlighted the concerns of the opposition regarding the alleged interference of the current government in the judiciary and the electoral process.
Saeed said that the Commonwealth was informed about the alleged efforts of the current administration to hinder former President Abdulla Yameen from participating in the upcoming elections.
"Any election that takes place without ensuring justice for our candidate [Yameen] cannot be considered fair. We strongly emphasize and condemn this. The Commonwealth's pre-assessment of the election should take this into consideration," Saeed said.
MP Saeed alleged that the government was utilizing state resources to exert influence over the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for September 9. He alleged that President Solih's administration was granting lagoons and islands to coalition partners of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) for political advantage. Saeed also accused the government of hiring a large number of employees in state-owned enterprises, which he believed could translate into potential votes in the elections.
He further alleged that the government had suspended the enforcement of laws that hold them accountable, allowing for increased misconduct.
"Justice for the opposition leader guarantees the rights of over 100,000 Maldivian citizens. We strongly oppose any attempts to postpone his appeal. It is the responsibility of the judiciary to ensure that he receives the justice he is entitled to," Saeed said.
While the PPM/PNC coalition has engaged with members of the Commonwealth, Maldives had severed its ties with the international organization during Yameen's presidency. The relationship was restored after President Solih assumed office in 2018.
Meanwhile, allies of the former president and the opposition have raised awareness of his appeal case to the European Union (EU) and other international bodies.
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