Minister declares gov’t separation from “India Out” campaign, claims it was led by Yameen

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel has asserted that the "India Out" campaign against India in the Maldives was a movement led by Former President Abdulla Yameen, and that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's government has completely distanced itself from the movement.

In an interview given to Wion, an Indian media outlet, during his official visit to India, Khaleel said that the "India Out" movement was primarily led by former President Yameen and that he has no connection whatsoever with the current government.

Khaleel added that he “has his own party” and that he is “still in that party”, noting that the government distanced itself from the campaign.

Khaleel, who actively participated in activities of the "India Out" movement, highlighted that the president is building a strong relationship with India and its people, and that the president has repeatedly made it clear that he is building a strong relationship with India and the Indian people.

Khaleel, a key figure in the current administration’s presidential campaign where Former President Yameen’s photo was prominently featured, even larger than that of President Muizzu himself, and an empty chair was reserved specifically for Yameen at campaign rallies, asserted that Former President Yameen no longer holds any ties to President Muizzu’s government and is now entirely excluded from it.

The foreign minister noted that the government’s relationship with the former president has “completely” changed and that he is completely “out” and is currently working against the government.

Khaleel added that Yameen is now working with the opposition, against the government, with which he believes that at this time, as they are maintaining a very close and strong relationship based on friendship and trust and based on historical evidence, there will be no room for such a relationship to be hindered, and strongly asserted that it will not happen.