Qasim Claims Unaware of Indian Military Presence in Maldives

Jumhooree Party Leader and parliament representative for Maamigili constituency Qasim Ibrahim has stated that he was unaware of foreign military presence in the Maldives.

Qasim stated as such during the press conference he held on Monday in response to a reporter’s query which highlighted the public’s concerns regarding the Indian military presence in the Maldives. Qasim, a member of the government coalition, claimed that he does not believe the current government would do such a thing, and that he does not believe there is any situation forcing President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to take such action.

“I have not seen any such list. I do listen to other people saying there will be no Indian military under their leadership. I don’t know the truth behind that. We are against any foreign military remaining in the country for over one or two months except to provide training”.

Assuring that President Solih would not act as such, he reiterated that he was unaware of Indian military presence in the Maldives. “I have not been to Addu or Hanimaadhoo. I have not seen those places or any of those people with my own eyes. Then how can I take to the streets to protest? Should we wreak havoc just because some people take to the streets making various claims?”, said Qasim.

The Maamigili MP was angered by the numerous queries related to the Indian military in the Maldives and iterated that he will not be baited by such questions. He then asked what he should say. Once again, he stated that it is unacceptable for any foreign military to remain in the Maldives. He asked the reporters whether his answer was satisfactory.

It is worth noting that numerous uninhabited islands Qasim has claimed for resort development have remained undeveloped for years, and has requested compensation whenever the government reclaims the islands. During his time as Finance Minister, Qasim purchased over 16 land plots at the rate of MVR 1 per square foot. The public has accused Qasim of stealing the richness of numerous Maldivian generations through political deals. When questioned regarding the matter, he refused to respond to the reporter from Dhiyares, stating that he will not answer personal questions.