Maldivian opposition prepares impeachment motion against pro-China President

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the primary opposition party in the Maldives, has reportedly gathered enough signatures, in collaboration with the Democrats, to submit an impeachment motion against President Mohamed Muizzu.

The MDP holds a majority in Parliament and claims to have the support of 34 members for the impeachment motion.

According to reports, the motion for the impeachment of the president faced disruptions in the Maldivian parliament due to chaos. The MDP has decided to deny approval to Home Minister Ali Ihusan and Defense Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon if government lawmakers continue to disrupt parliamentary proceedings, reported ANI.

In response to a skirmish between political leaders within the Maldivian Parliament, heavy police arrangements have been made to enhance security ahead of the upcoming session. The parliament witnessed violence when government MPs from the PPM/PNC party disrupted proceedings, leading to a confrontation between MDP MP Isa and PNC MP Abdullah Shaheem Abdul Hakeem.

A key vote on parliamentary approval for the Muizzu government was scheduled, but several PNC members barricaded the house, disrupting the session.

The ruling coalition parties, PNC and PPP, released a statement portraying the refusal to approve ministers as an impediment to public service delivery.

The Opposition had recently criticised the current regime for its perceived anti-India pivot and pro-China stand in foreign policy, expressing concerns about its impact on the country's long-term development and stability in the Indian Ocean.