Seven-party coalition to hold protest in relation to GMR issue

The seven-party coalition, which has commenced the movement “Maldivians’ airport back to Maldivians” with the purpose of reclaiming Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA) from its current operator GMR, has announced plans to hold a gathering at Artificial Beach area on Thursday night.

President of Adhaalath Party Imran Abdullah said at a press conference held by the seven parties at the STELCO auditorium today, that Thursday’s gathering will mark the commencement of a series of similar activities, and that it will reveal Maldivians’ sentiments in relation to the GMR issue.

He said that speeches will be delivered against GMR at different forums, and the information will be shared with citizens.

President of the Civil Society Coalition Sheikh Mohamed Didi said that the efforts will continue until the airport is returned to Maldivians.

He urged all organisations included in the Civil Society Coalition to participate in the activities.

“Maldivians will win their airport back. It won’t take long. Bigger events have transpired in our country. We want to say to GMR, please leave our country,” he said.

Vice President of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) Abdul Raheem Abdullah urged all Maldivians to participate in the activities to reclaim the airport from GMR. He advised that these are not political activities, but activities carried out to protect the nation’s interest.

Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) did not participate in today’s press conference.

Representative of MRM Ahmed Shameem said that DRP was invited to join the press conference.

DRP Media Coordinator Ali Solih said that DRP was informed of the press conference five minutes before it began.

DRP also did not participate in the press conference held last week, to announce the commencement of the “Maldivians’ airport back to Maldivians” movement.

When asked if DRP will participate in Thursday’s gathering, Ali Solih said that this decision will be made by DRP’s leadership.

The seven-party coalition is made up of PPM, Gaumee Party, Adhaalath Party, PA, JP and Gaumee Itthihad.