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Parliament summons Defence Minister over 'invasion' comments

03 March 2019, MVT 12:34
Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi during the Strategic News International (SNI) interview. PHOTO: SCREENGRAB / SNI
03 March 2019, MVT 12:34

Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi is to be summoned to parliament on Monday regarding some of her comments to Strategic News International (SNI), an Indian media outlet.

This is the first time a minister has been summoned to parliament in President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s government.

The case was submitted to the parliament by Mahibadhoo MP Ahmed Thoriq.

According to local media Mihaaru, Minister Mariya was sent a notice summoning her to the parliament on Monday. However, the agenda has yet to be revealed.

In his case, Thoriq expressed that it was the minister’s responsibility to defend the freedom and sovereignty of the country. He questioned whether Mariya’s statement upheld these responsibilities.

During the interview to Strategic News International, Mariya declared that although India has no intention of invading Maldives, they possessed the capability to do so.

The minister also complimented the Indian military, asserting the strength of their armed forces. However, she came under harsh fire from the Maldivian public over her invasion comment.

Those who denounced her statement claimed that it is not fitting of a minister to acknowledge such facts, and as it regards the freedom of the state, a formal apology is expected from her. Some have even called for Mariya’s resignation.

Meanwhile, opposition parties presented the argument that Minister Mariya is no longer trustworthy, the first time such an argument has been presented to the parliament.

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