Deputy Speaker of Parliament – Hulhu-Henveiru MP Moosa Manik says the people no longer interested in political rhetoric, but want to see development.
Hulhu-Henveiru MP Moosa Manik is the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, and the former Chairperson of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). Speaking on PSM’s Raajje Miadhu programme Sunday night, MP Moosa Manik weighed in on the current political situation in the country, and the internal power struggle within the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).
He said that “nepotism” was the main cause of PPM’s internal power struggle. He alleged former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom of working to keep power within his family, but said President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom had a contrasting approach. He went on to commend President Yameen for his leadership approach.
MP Moosa Manik said “the people no longer want to listen to political rhetoric, but want to see national development and more opportunities.” Speaking about the political situation, the lawmaker alleged that political parties are now operating only for the political benefit of a few. He also spoke about the opposition’s burgeoning attempt to oust the Speaker of Parliament, and described it as “undemocratic”.
Noting that the ruling party holds a majority in Parliament, MP Moosa Manik said “this does not mean that President Yameen exerts undue influence on independent institutions,” adding that “the only power vested in the President is to nominate members to independent institutions.”
Speaking further, MP Moosa Manik slammed the opposition coalition – Maldives United Opposition (MUO), which he said was formed by failed opposition leaders, levelling criticism at their approach to politics.