President Mohamed Muizzu's parliamentary address in the Maldives faced a significant setback, with empty opposition benches marking the absence of the two main opposition parties, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats. The newly-elected president's statement was boycotted by these parties, highlighting a notable political divide in the South Asian archipelago nation.

The inaugural sitting of the 87-seat parliament witnessed a notable absence, with only 24 MPs in attendance. A total of 56 MPs, comprising 13 from the Democrats and 43 from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), boycotted the session, citing concerns over the "undemocratic ways of the government." This widespread boycott underscores significant discontent within the parliamentary representation.

The two opposition parties have previously voiced strong criticism against Muizzu for his 'anti-India' stance, urging the withdrawal of Indian troops from the island. Additionally, they have raised concerns over his visit to China, opting to skip India, which has prompted heightened probe and disapproval from the opposition.

In his inaugural parliamentary address, Muizzu announced that the initial contingent of Indian military personnel would be repatriated from the island nation before March 10. The withdrawal process will continue, with the remaining Indian troops stationed at two aviation platforms scheduled to be withdrawn by May 10.

Muizzu asserted in his statement to Parliament that he holds the belief that a significant majority of Maldivians support his administration, anticipating the removal of foreign military presence from the country and the recovery of "lost oceanic territory."

Muizzu declared that his administration will firmly oppose any state agreements that could compromise the sovereignty of the country. Following his inauguration on November 17 last year, Muizzu formally urged India to withdraw 88 military personnel from the Maldives by March 15. He justified this request by stating that the Maldivian people had given him a "strong mandate" to make such a plea to New Delhi.

Indian military personnel are stationed in the Maldives primarily for the operation of two helicopters and an aircraft, facilitating numerous medical evacuations and humanitarian missions. Over the past few years, these Indian platforms have played a crucial role in providing essential humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the people of the Maldives.

Muizzu faces potential impeachment proceedings as a significant number of MPs boycotted parliamentary sitting. The MDP and the Democrats have recently declared that they gathered sufficient signatures to initiate a no-confidence motion against him.

It is crucial to note that the removal of a sitting president requires a minimum of 53 votes within parliament. The combined strength of the MDP and Democrats, totaling 56 MPs, raises the possibility of a successful no-confidence motion against Muizzu.

Image source: WION News