Progressive Congress Coalition’s Leader Abdul Raheem Abulla (Adhurey) has stated that the incumbent government has created space for things that threaten independence since assuming office.
Speaking at a peaceful rally held today as part of a national event under the name ‘Maldivians in Defense of Independence’ – Adhurey said that this government takes the lead in taking actions that could hinder independence.
“I highlight the Uthuru-Thilafalhu Agreement as part of it. Today, Maldivians very well understand that activities that follow from the stationing of military personnel in Hanimadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Addu and other places – are ones which could threaten independence,” he added.
Adhurey said that agreements made in manners that could threaten independence should not be kept secret. On this note, he said that making such agreements a secret means that independence is being used to attain personal gains.
Adhurey also stressed that activities of the opposition coalition cannot be stopped. He added that effort will be put to ensure that the activities of the opposition coalitions grow bigger and stronger each passing day.
“The people will end this by taking back the powers bestowed to them in the constitution and using it to defend the independence and the holy religion of Islam and after ensuring the safety and protection promised to them in the constitution,” he had said.
Deputy Leader of PPM, Guraidhoo MP Gassan Maumoon also spoke at today’s rally. He said that what the government needs to hear today is the people’s voices, raised in defense of independence.
“Maldivian people do not want any foreign military personnel to be stationed in Maldivian soil. The call of the Maldivians is that they will protect their independence themselves,” he added.
Speaking further, Gassan said that former President Yameen Abdul Gayyoom is being subjected to unjust harm in jail. He added that the main purpose of working to change Yameen’s administration was because he had worked to defend independence.
During this rally, participants also called on the resignation of senior government officials repeatedly. The rally held this evening saw the participation of a large number of people. It also saw the participation of senior leaders from the opposition coalition.
Participants also raised voices against the influence of Indian military personnel in the Maldives. They also raised voices against actions that could threaten independence.