President Muizzu’s understanding of democracy is simply following the tide and taking the path of least resistance: Meekail
South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem has heavily criticized President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, characterizing him as a leader who shifts political ideologies for personal gain. Speaking at the MDP headquarters, Meekail asserted that the government's concerns regarding the frequency of elections demonstrate the President's lack of familiarity with democratic principles.
Member of Parliament Meekail Ahmed Naseem addresses an MDP rally. March 3, 2026. | MDP | MDP
Member of Parliament for South Galolhu, Meekail Ahmed Naseem, has stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s contribution to Maldivian democracy is zero, adding that the President’s understanding of democracy is simply following the tide of power.
He made these remarks while addressing a gathering at the MDP headquarters.
Meekail characterized the President as an opportunist who aligns himself wherever he stands to gain the most throughout the Maldives' democratic journey. Describing President Muizzu as a figure who consistently gravitates toward the most advantageous political openings, Meekail noted that the President frequently changes his political colors and allegiances.
"The democracy President Muizzu knows is nothing but opportunism; it is about reaping the benefits of others' hard work. He began his political career with the Adhaalath Party, then shifted his allegiance to Sun Siyam. Later, he stood by Yameen, yet now he has turned against him by seizing control of the PNC. Therefore, it is unbecoming of President Muizzu to speak of democracy," Meekail said.
He characterized the referendum scheduled for April 4 as a clandestine election conducted in secrecy. Meekail strongly criticized government candidates, noting that he often hears them complain about the burden of frequent elections. He further stated that it is not easy for the MDP to forget the struggles faced before democracy was established in the Maldives.
"The death of Evan Naseem, who was killed in prison, is not something our party members can easily forget. The death of Solah, whose body was found discarded in the lagoon, is not easy for us. The coup of February 7th is not easy. Rilwan and Yameen are not easy for us," Meekail said.
Meekail stated that it is unsurprising that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu finds the frequency of elections burdensome, asserting that the President is estranged from democratic principles. He further noted that expressing difficulty over the number of elections reflects a fundamental discomfort with democracy and the established mechanisms of a democratic system.
