JP still has chance to work with PPM: President

Jumhoory Party (JP) still has the opportunity to work with the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has said.

The President’s statement follows the dissolution of the coalition agreement between PPM and JP after JP leader Gasim Ibrahim stood for the parliament speakership on 28 May.

President made the remark at an event held in Muliage today following the signing of independent MP Abdulla Khaleel to the ruling party.

“Neither my party nor I hold a grudge against JP. They still have the opportunity. I have great respect for Gasim Ibrahim. I believe that we still have the opportunity to work together,” President Yameen said.

The President also noted that some JP members still remain in political posts and as board members of government companies.

However, President Yameen dismissed Minister of Transport and Communication Ameen Ibrahim, in addition to three state ministers and four deputy holding JP slots in government, on the day following the dissolution of the coalition agreement.

Asked if the President wishes his JP cabinet minister to sign for PPM, President Yameen said that it is up to the minister to decide and that they have not been pressured.

“I have not placed any conditions. I have not forced them or given them a deadline. It is their decision, after discussion with their parties and considering what is best for the state and for the people, taking into account how they can do constructive work, it is up to them to decide,” President Yameen said.