Deputy Managing Director of Public Service Media (PSM) Mohamed Ikram Abdul Latheef has stated the presidential debate has proven to be educational and technical, refuting rumours spread by opposition the event was bias.
In a special interview to PSM News, Deputy Managing Director expressed the presidential debate was organised by Maldives National University (MNU) with PSM playing no part in organising the debate and only airing the event on its channels. Ikram said it proves the independency of the presidential debate and added the importance of participating in the event was seen upon its conclusion.
Moreover, highlighting all other presidential candidates participated in the previously held presidential debates, Ikram said it is believed participation was seen as a responsibility of every candidate. He said citizens have now been cleared of many doubts following the presidential debate.
Presidential Debate 2018 was only attended by the ruling party candidate, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, while the opposition coalition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih failed to attend the debate despite accepting the invitation.