Committee backs President’s decision to leave Commonwealth

National Security Committee of People’s Majlis has voted in approval of President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and his Cabinet’s decision to leave Commonwealth.

Committee’s report, based on its evaluation of the issue, read that Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) had tried to influence the country’s domestic policies and had taken action against the country on multiple occasions, starting from 2012.

It said that CMAG’s attempt to influence the independence and sovereignty of the State of Maldives had had a negative impact on its economy. And could instigate social instability within the country.

President Yameen had originally asked for advice from People’s Majlis over the country’s membership in Commonwealth in July 20, 2015.

The recent request sent by President Yameen says that his Cabinet had discussed the country’s performance as a member of Commonwealth.

“I find it right to consider your opinion as representatives of the people of Maldives in People’s Majlis, and request your decision over the issue,” wrote President Yameen.

Majority of the government-aligned MPs who participated in the debate over the issue, carried out during the Majlis sitting last Tuesday, October 18, strongly supported leaving Commonwealth, while opposition MPs called it a “mistake.”

Maldives had joined Commonwealth in 1982.