Qasim announces allegiance to Maumoon

Leader of Jumhoory Party (JP), Qasim Ibrahim has announced allegiance to Leader of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom – who is bereft with divide within his party.

Speaking to press after his meeting with Qasim at JP headquarters this Sunday, Maumoon said that Qasim had pledged his alliance to him.

“We have agreed to hold discussions on multiple levels, and for the two parties to work together, both in and out of People’s Majlis,” said Maumoon.

Maumoon said that he was open for discussion with any other political party as long as it takes place in a democratic setting. Opposition parties have announced support for Maumoon in the conflict between him and President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, who has taken over running of PPM, backed by the courts.

Maumoon said that he was stripped of power in violation of the laws and Islamic Sharia using undue influence. He said he did not accept the decision of the courts.

He said that the independent institutions of the country were powerless puppets under control by one.

Qasim stressed that Maumoon continued to advocate against violation of PPM Constitution, and that he, himself, condemned unlawful actions.

Qasim thanked Maumoon for coming to him, and said he was ready to work with Maumoon for the rights of the people.