Nasheed expresses disappointment over denial of UN pass

Former President Mohamed Nasheed's office on Monday has conveyed concern regarding the Maldivian government's decision to refuse him a pass for entry to the United Nations Headquarters.

In a statement released by his office, it was asserted that the Maldivian government, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, declined to cooperate in facilitating the necessary accreditation for his attendance at the UN Annual General Assembly in New York.

The statement clarified that Nasheed currently serves as the Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF), an international body, and this role does not preclude his participation in the UN session.

However, the statement emphasized that, as a former President of Maldives, a former Speaker of Parliament, and having held other distinguished positions, Nasheed has consistently desired to represent his nation with the Maldivian flag and emblem on his diplomatic credentials.

"This is immensely beneficial to the Maldives. It is for this reason that a request for the pass to the UN Headquarters was submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs," the statement elaborated.

Furthermore, the statement highlighted the established custom for former heads of state and government, as well as parliamentary presiding officers, to attend international official meetings and ceremonies representing their countries of origin.

This year's 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, a gathering of world leaders, will see Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullah Khaleel representing the Maldives in lieu of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. While the President attended the meeting last year, the government has not provided a reason for his absence this year.

In the initial round of the 2023 presidential elections, Nasheed's The Democrats party participated. Nasheed and The Democrats subsequently opted not to endorse any candidate in the second round, which ultimately saw the election of President Muizzu.

Earlier in the current administration, Nasheed had commended President Muizzu's policies. However, he later voiced apprehensions regarding certain governmental policies. Nasheed rejoined the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the political party he founded, in June of this year.

Key issues slated for discussion at this year's UN assembly include addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, gender equality, climate change, and international safety standards pertaining to the use of artificial intelligence.

The UN General Assembly is a week-long, high-level convening where global leaders assemble to deliberate on critical international matters.