Get back in line or go home: Imran warns President Muizzu

Imran Abdulla, the president of Adhaalath Party (AP), accused President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of crossing “multiple redlines” that the country’s leader should not cross, warning that he would need to “go back home” if he fails to stick to the rule of law.

In a press briefing on Monday morning, Imran, who served as home minister during the last Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) administration, accused incumbent administration of making a mess out of the system of governance.

He said that it all began with the 2024 amendment to write anti-defection provisions into the Constitution, which he said has “locked up” members of the Parliament.

He alleged that the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) next “locked” the judiciary and then free press.

Imran issued two pieces of advice to President Muizzu, who had previously worked with Imran at the AP.

First off, Imran advised President Muizzu to abandon plans to extend the presidential term – something that his administration has denied it plans to push.

Next, he advised President Muizzu to abandon the Rasmale’ land reclamation project.

“If you, President Muizzu, don’t know how to govern in accordance with the Maldivian Constitution and laws, or are unwilling to, then just go home immediately,” he said.

Imran said that the Maldivian people voted for President Muizzu so he may govern in accordance with the country’s constitution and laws and regulations.

He said that the people will not allow President Muizzu to take any other path.

“If you want to make the Maldives your personal kingdom, the people will not allow it. We will not allow it,” he said.

“…He has crossed so may redlines that a leader should not. So, let us all, all political parties, all political leaders, and all citizens, work together to get him back in line.”

Imran said that President Muizzu will be allowed to hold office for as long as he respects the rule of law.

But you will need to go home if you plan otherwise, he said.

During Monday’s press briefing, Imran invited other political parties and civic groups to work together with AP to hold the government accountable.

The invitation comes with the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) set to hold a mass anti-government rally on November 17, coinciding with President Muizzu administration’s second anniversary.