Current political party leadership in the Maldives lacks quality: Rasheed

Former Member of Parliament for the Central Maafannu constituency, Ibrahim Rasheed (Bonda), has stated that there is a lack of quality leadership in the management of political parties currently operating in the Maldives.

Speaking during RaajjeTV’s "Dhivehinge Bin Dhivehinnah" coverage, Rasheed stated that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has lost the identity it held at its inception. Highlighting the issue of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) "poaching" members from other parties, Rasheed remarked that in the past, such actions would not have been tolerated without a response.

However, Rasheed criticized the MDP leadership, stating that they have overlooked the fraudulent recruitment of members into the PNC. He further noted that those at the helm of the MDP are now seen sitting side-by-side with PNC leaders.

We were aware that numerous MDP members were being poached, and complaints were filed accordingly. Even we, the Democrats, submitted our concerns. However, after a certain point, they seem to have forgotten everything and are now aligning themselves and sitting at the same table with those very people. This clearly demonstrates that they are a group prone to selective amnesia. It sends a message that no matter how grave a crime or legal violation is committed, the leadership of the opposition will eventually overlook it. This is a significant issue. When they collaborate in this manner, it gives the public the impression that nothing is wrong and that the government is functioning correctly.

Ibrahim Rasheed (Bonda)

Rasheed stated that engaging in such actions sends a very damaging message to the public, adding that this is exactly what is currently transpiring.

Furthermore, Rasheed warned that if the Maldives continues on its current trajectory, a significant number of foreigners could be permanently settled in the country without the public's knowledge.