No dialogue with The Democrats for presidential election, "India Out" movement will continue: Abdul Raheem

President of People's National Congress (PNC) and Interim leader of the PPM/PNC coalition Abdul Raheem Abdulla (Adhurey) has stated that the party is not engaged in discussions with The Democratic Party regarding the upcoming presidential election and expressed the coalition's commitment to the "India Out" movement.

The Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and The Democrats have held discussions to work together politically. However, The Democrats said that they will not be able to cooperate if the opposition coalition persists with their "India Out" movement. The Democrats have further stated their willingness to support a unified candidate for the upcoming presidential election.

During the launch of the door-to-door campaign for the PPM presidential candidate, former President Abdulla Yameen, Abdul Raheem expressed that despite certain individuals urging them to cease their anti-India campaign, they have no intention to do so. He said they were not in talks with The Democrats or any other political party was to form a coalition.

"The PPM and PNC are the ones who determine our agenda with the advice and guidance of President Yameen. Therefore, if we decide to cease the "India Out" campaign, it will be done in consultation with our President," Abdul Raheem said.

Abdul Raheem mentioned that the party was engaged in discussions with The Democrats, not regarding the elections, but rather on national issues.

"For instance, we are in discussions regarding matters such as maritime border demarcation and other issues that impact the sovereignty of our country, certainly not regarding forming a coalition for the presidential election," he said.

Abdul Raheem said that although Yameen is in prison, he advises them to collaborate with those who are committed to working together on the significant issues facing the country.

"We are following Yameen's advice and engaging in such collaborations. The information will be shared with our Senate," Abdul Raheem added.

Abdul Raheem said that the Senate is not concerned about the dialogue with The Democrats. Instead, their main concern is addressing the situation concerning Yameen.

Former President Yameen, who is currently serving a prison sentence, would have the opportunity to participate in the election if his appeal is successful in the High Court.