President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called on the public to consider why political opponents are resisting constitutional amendments introduced to protect the Maldives’ independence and territorial integrity.

Speaking at the official ceremony commemorating the Maldives’ 61st Independence Day, President Dr Muizzu said every country has an equal right to independence and sovereignty. He described the protection of territorial integrity as a fundamental part of preserving national independence.

The President said the Government had established a dedicated office to address matters concerning the country’s territory, with its work now underway. He added that the Administration had also begun efforts to recover an area of Maldivian maritime territory which he alleged had been relinquished unlawfully and discreetly by the former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government.

President Dr Muizzu said the territory legally belongs to the Maldives and that the Government was seeking to address what he described as an injustice arising from the earlier decision.

He also referred to the Chagos Archipelago, saying historical records show that it belongs to the Maldives. He said Maldivians believe that, should the territory be transferred to another country, it should be returned to the Maldives, adding that the Government was holding consultations on the issue in the national interest.

The President said resolving concerns over the transfer of Maldivian territory without a legal basis and the presence of foreign military personnel without legal authority was a key policy of the Administration. Constitutional amendments had therefore been introduced to prevent such actions, he added.

Under one amendment, changes to the Maldives’ territory, territorial waters or Exclusive Economic Zone require the approval of three-quarters of the total membership of Parliament.

A second amendment requires parliamentary approval for foreign military personnel to be stationed anywhere in the Maldives for any purpose, except those visiting to participate in military training conducted under agreements with other countries.

President Dr Muizzu said the amendments ensure that foreign military personnel cannot operate in the Maldives without approval from a parliamentary majority. He called on the public to consider why political opponents were resisting measures intended to protect the country’s independence and territorial integrity.

The President added that those opposing the reforms must be held accountable for explaining the reasons behind their position.