Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has accused the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) of misleading the public and attempting to defame the Maldives over the proposal to hold presidential and parliamentary elections simulatenously.

Minister Dr Khaleel made the remarks while speaking at the inauguration of the People’s National Congress (PNC) campaign office for the Central Hulhumalé constituency on 10 March. 

Addressing the gathering, the minister said the decision on whether to conduct the two elections simultaneously would ultimately be determined by the public. He said the Government intends to seek the views of the people through a referendum rather than deciding the matter solely through the parliamentary majority of the ruling party.

He also said that during his recent visits abroad, some individuals had raised concerns with him after being informed by opposition figures that the Government intended to manipulate the elections. He stated that the Government’s position is that holding elections on the same day is a practice followed in several countries and that the decision should be made by the Maldivian people.

The minister said Maldivians would cast their votes in accordance with the country’s laws and that there should be no fear in allowing the public to decide. He added that political leaders who are unwilling to take issues to the people should reconsider their role in politics.

Minister Dr Khaleel further expressed concern over statements made internationally that he said could harm the country’s reputation. He said claims encouraging actions such as discouraging tourists from visiting the Maldives or halting financial support for development projects could negatively affect the livelihoods of Maldivian families.

The foreign minister also highlighted the Government’s foreign policy approach, stating that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pursued a policy of maintaining friendly relations with all countries except Israel, which he said has been recognised internationally. He added that the current Administration remains focused on development and expressed confidence that the Maldivian public would not support policies similar to those pursued during the previous administration.