Muizzu lies again, denies claiming those who voted against PNC are against prioritizing religion

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has been accused of dishonesty after denying remarks in which he implied that those who did not vote for the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) in recent elections were individuals who do not prioritize Islam.

Speaking at a gathering in AA. Rasdhoo, President Muizzu stated that election results consistently show public support for the PNC's ideology, with the majority favoring a religious and nationalistic vision.

The majority of Maldivians have consistently supported this ideology across all elections, backing a religious and nationalistic vision by granting a clear majority to the PNC.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu

Consequently, when RaajjeTV questioned the President during Monday's press conference regarding his right to make such a statement, he responded that his remarks had been misinterpreted. The President further clarified that he had never made any statement suggesting that any group of Maldivian citizens were not Muslims.

Taking things out of context can lead to many different interpretations. In fact, if you take a statement out of context, it can be twisted into something quite malicious. I believe you are referring to the remarks I made the other night in Rasdhoo. However, if you look at the entirety of my speech and the subject matter as a whole, it will be very clear what I was actually saying. I want to be certain: I did not say anything to suggest that any Maldivian citizens are not Muslims or are outside the fold of Islam.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu

However, the President noted that the majority of Maldivians prioritize national interest and religious values, identifying these citizens as those who voted for the PNC. He further stated that opposition protests have been observed involving conduct that falls outside the bounds of religious and ethical standards.

However, when questioned about the matter during the press conference, the President stated that the journalist had misinterpreted the situation. He noted that while the Constitution guarantees certain rights regarding the freedom of assembly, these rights are subject to specific limitations. The President further highlighted that participants in the MDP protests were using profane language and engaging in indecent behavior. He emphasized that such actions are contrary to the principles of Islam.

Broadly speaking, the President has retracted his earlier remarks, in which he had implied that those who did not vote for the PNC in the recent elections were individuals who do not prioritize Islam.