Mariyam Shiuna earlier sparked controversy over her remarks against PM Modi
New Delhi:
A suspended minister in the Maldives sparked a row after he posted on social media against the opposition Maldives Democratic Party (MDP), whose logo resembles Ashok Chakra.
“I would like to address a recent post I made on social media that has caused concern and criticism. I offer my sincerest apologies for any confusion or offense caused by the content of my recent post.” With Maldives President Mohamed Mohamed Izu posted on X today.
“It has come to my attention that the image I used in my response to the Maldivian opposition party MDP is similar to the Indian flag. I would like to clarify that this was completely unintentional and I sincerely apologize for any misunderstanding it may have caused,” she added.
“The Maldives takes its relationship with India and the mutual respect we have with India very seriously. In the future I will be more vigilant in verifying what I share to prevent such oversights,” the former minister said.
Ms. Shiuna’s post replaced the compass on the MDP poster with a symbol similar to the Ashok Chakra. The posting comes against the backdrop of diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives following the assumption of office by President Muizu. The president has been insisting on the withdrawal of more than 80 Indian troops stationed on humanitarian services in the island nation. During his tenure, the Maldives also expanded into China. Shortly after taking office, President Muizu visited Beijing and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. After returning home, he did not name any country, “We may be small, but that does not mean they are qualified to bully us.” This remark was seen as a sharp attack on India.
As the election approaches, the Maldivian president has struck a conciliatory tone and said India will continue to be the Maldives’ “closest ally”. He also urged New Delhi to provide debt relief to the Maldives, which owes India about $400.9 million by the end of 2023.
Against this backdrop, the suspended minister’s comments (now deleted) appeared to put the NPC in a difficult position.
This is not the first time Shiuna has made headlines for her remarks about India. Earlier, her remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep triggered a strong reaction from former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed.
“What shocking comments Maldivian government official Mariyam Shiuna made about the leader of a key ally that is vital to the security and prosperity of the Maldives. The government of Mohamed Muizou must stand in step with these comments distance and provide clear assurances to India that these remarks do not reflect the government’s policy,” Mr Nasheed said at the time.
Soon after, Ms. Junai and two others were suspended.
