Author: Minivan News

Why I Want to be MDP President – Mody

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with MDP Presidency candidate Mohamed Ibrahim Didi (Mody).
MN: Why are you standing for the leadership of the MDP in the forthcoming Congress?
M: I am not contesting because I have any selfish needs nor because I have a great ambition to be the party leader. However, MDP has come to a stage where the party needs to show leadership and prove to the people that it can confidently govern the country. I am contesting because the leadership of the country is not one man’s own domain. And i think all the capable people who have nominated themselves have proved that there are people who are willing and able to lead the Maldives into a modern democracy.
MN: MDP has said the party needs to develop a set of policies. What sort of policies would you like to see the party develop?
M: It is up to the party members to decide on the policy they would like their party to have. As for me, I would like a more just and equal society. I wouldn’t want people who are sick to go and beg for money to get medical treatment because they can’t afford it. I wouldn’t want drug peddlars in front of schools where our children study. I want the economic benefits to be distributed in a more equitable manner. I want the justice system in the country to treat everybody fairly and equally.
MN: What do you think the MDP needs to do to dig the country out of the political hole it is currently in?
M: The things are standing at a standstill because the government is refusing to listen to the voice of the people. The government is refusing to talk with the other parties. Only through a dialogue between the government and opposition can we get out of this mess. However, the government must be sincere in starting a dialogue. I don’t think keeping the chairperson of the opposition party under detention shows sincerity. We are willing to talk with the government only when they release the political prisoners and show their sincerity.
MN:What should the MDP be doing to ensure those arrested following the 12-14 August unrest are released, including the current Chairperson Anni.
M: I believe what we have all agreed in Colombo is a good course of action. Unless the political prisoner are released, MDP must pursue all means of peaceful civil disobedience. We must not deter from our course of action because of warnings and threats from the government. What we are proposing to do is not illegal but what is a right of ours. It is a right granted to people in all democratic societies. Preventing us from practicing our rights to freedom of assembly and expression will be a violation of our constitution.
MN: Some MDP members have said you have been quite quiet as an MP since the January elections. Do you think this will impact on your chances for party president?
M: I have been working as an MP in the People’s Majlis as well as People’s Special Majlis. I am working as a member of the the caretaker committee of MDP. I have not been quiet but I may not have been very visible. I will respect the decision of the members of the Congress when the decision is made in December.

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with MDP Presidency candidate Mohamed Ibrahim Didi (Mody).

MN: Why are you standing for the leadership of the MDP in the forthcoming Congress?

M: I am not contesting because I have any selfish needs nor because I have a great ambition to be the party leader. However, MDP has come to a stage where the party needs to show leadership and prove to the people that it can confidently govern the country. I am contesting because the leadership of the country is not one man’s own domain. And i think all the capable people who have nominated themselves have proved that there are people who are willing and able to lead the Maldives into a modern democracy.

MN: MDP has said the party needs to develop a set of policies. What sort of policies would you like to see the party develop?

M: It is up to the party members to decide on the policy they would like their party to have. As for me, I would like a more just and equal society. I wouldn’t want people who are sick to go and beg for money to get medical treatment because they can’t afford it. I wouldn’t want drug peddlars in front of schools where our children study. I want the economic benefits to be distributed in a more equitable manner. I want the justice system in the country to treat everybody fairly and equally.

MN: What do you think the MDP needs to do to dig the country out of the political hole it is currently in?

M: The things are standing at a standstill because the government is refusing to listen to the voice of the people. The government is refusing to talk with the other parties. Only through a dialogue between the government and opposition can we get out of this mess. However, the government must be sincere in starting a dialogue. I don’t think keeping the chairperson of the opposition party under detention shows sincerity. We are willing to talk with the government only when they release the political prisoners and show their sincerity.

MN:What should the MDP be doing to ensure those arrested following the 12-14 August unrest are released, including the current Chairperson Anni.

M: I believe what we have all agreed in Colombo is a good course of action. Unless the political prisoner are released, MDP must pursue all means of peaceful civil disobedience. We must not deter from our course of action because of warnings and threats from the government. What we are proposing to do is not illegal but what is a right of ours. It is a right granted to people in all democratic societies. Preventing us from practicing our rights to freedom of assembly and expression will be a violation of our constitution.

MN: Some MDP members have said you have been quite quiet as an MP since the January elections. Do you think this will impact on your chances for party president?

M: I have been working as an MP in the People’s Majlis as well as People’s Special Majlis. I am working as a member of the the caretaker committee of MDP. I have not been quiet but I may not have been very visible. I will respect the decision of the members of the Congress when the decision is made in December.

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

“I Believe I can Deliver the Nation from Oppression and Tyranny” – MDP Presidency Candidate Mohamed Shihab MP

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Mohamed Shihab, Member of Parliament for Male’ and a candidate for MDP Presidency in the forthcoming party Congress.

MN: Why are you standing for the Presidency of the MDP in the forthcoming Congress?

MS: I believe that with the blessing of God all mighty I have the necessary political experience and will to serve the party and lead the fight for democracy, freedom, justice and rule of law.

I believe I can deliver the nation from oppression and tyranny that it had long endured and sail to the shores of democracy and freedom where each person is treated with respect and dignity, where harmony and contentment prevail, where opportunities are available to all and none is left behind.

I believe the time has come for the party to show a leader who not only lead but lead by knowledge, experience and example. Having studied in a free and democratic nation I have spent my entire adult life serving the people of Maldives.

I have served the people of Maldives in many areas, in the planning sector, in attracting foreign aid and assistance, in the corporate arena and in parliament. Armed with what I have learnt I am more than prepared to fight for what I believe and what I had been taught to believe by my teachers and parents which is freedom, justice and respect to all.

I have witnessed how and why the country had gone astray, the declared policies, the hidden agendas and the endemic corruption that had lead the country to this sorry state. I know and understand what had gone wrong and what needs to be done to redeem the country from this tyranny and misery and build a prosperous, compassionate society where justice is the order of the day.

When representing the people of Dhaalu Atoll at the Peoples Majlis for the last twenty years I have advocated for freedom and democracy at all times, I had been patient, as God is with those who are patient, I had contributed to democracy and freedom whenever an opportunity arose. A man can only make a minute difference, ending tyranny requires concentration of work, determination and perseverance of many as it is happening now. People of Dhaalu Atoll had voted me to Majlis four times despite hostile campaigns been waged against me. This shows the faith and trust they had in me and appreciated what I had fought for in the Majlis. People of Male’ had voted me to parliament, further strengthening the faith and trust the people have in me, making me the longest serving member in the Majlis and I am eternally grateful to all and I promise to all that I would continue to devote my time and energy for the principles I believe in and for the just cause we are fighting for.

MN: MDP has said the party needs to develop a policy manifesto following the leadership election. What sort of policies would you like to see the party develop?

MS: I want MDP to develop a set of policies that will benefit each and everyone of us, a policy that would address and eradicate poverty and misery that prevails in the country, a policy that ensures that each and everyone of us can sleep peacefully at night knowing full well that they are free from the midnight raids by the security forces.

I want MDP to implement a policy where all fathers and mothers can be sure that their children are being educated by the most qualified teachers, a policy where no child should leave school without learning how to read or write. We do no favour when we permit students to pass from grade to grade for the sake of statistics as it is the case now.

I want MDP to develop a policy that provides the best health care for all and not for the privileged few, a policy that recognizes housing as a fundamental human right of each and every Maldivian.

MDP should follow a policy that facilitates free enterprises, expansion of trade and increase the national productivity. Where rights of the workers are recognized and respected, a policy where pensioners can live a decent and a dignified life.

I want MDP to develop a policy that creates more employment, a policy that will eliminate the widening gap between the rich and the poor and help all Maldivians to share in our nation’s wealth to enjoy a secure and a fulfilling life.

As you know, our children are the targets of a massive pre planned campaign to hook them on drugs, I would want MDP to address the drug issue as a matter of priority and provide a comprehensive mechanism to rehabilitate the unfortunate victims.

I want MDP to protect the civil liberties of the citizens and build a democratic, corruption free, tolerant and a compassionate society that is just and equitable, where the rights of every citizen are paramount, where the principles of Islam are upheld and respected.

MN: What do you think the MDP needs to do to dig the country out of the political hole it is currently in?

MS: I am not surprised to find Maldives in a political hole. If you look into the history of the world it is a phase that all countries on the road to democracy go through, we are not an exception. The political history in India and South Africa to name a few, passed through the same phase before achieving democracy. We need to be patient and act prudently. We need to appreciate that for every good which we seek we have to sacrifice some of our comfort and our ease.

Our Chairman and others are behind bars, why? because they stood for democracy and freedom. He along with a few brave men and women of our party exercised a right enshrined in our constitution. The injustices they now face is the ultimate sacrifice they are making for the good we shall finally reap. Our challenges are formidable but God willing we shall soon overcome and sail from Thuraakunu to Addu, thanking and praising All Mighty for delivering us from this tyranny and oppression.

MN: What should the MDP be doing to ensure those arrested following the 12-14 August unrest are released, including the current Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed (Anni)?

MS: MDP should always fight for democracy, freedom and justice and abhor violence. Our Chairperson and a few others are behind bars not because they carried out an illegal act but for exercising a fundamental right clearly expressed in our constitution, they are arrested and falsely imprisoned at the fancy of those who have sworn to protect and uphold our constitution, we shall hold them accountable and bring justice to them.

I believe we at MDP should expose to the public and to the international community the lies and deceptions the present regime is engaged in. This is an era where there is almost no restraint in communication, we should continue to use the medium of technology in whatever means available to educate the public to the fact that there is not even an iota of justice accorded to our Chairman and others arrested and let the people be the judge.

I am saddened to find that those who ought to know what is right and wrong had decided to abandon whatever decency in them to defend the in defendable for an earthly gain or recognition. I am sure, God willing time will finally reveal the truth and justice be done.

MN: Some people have criticised you for lacking the vision and courage needed to take on a regime such as Gayoom’s. Do you think this is true?

MS: Well, I believe it is the opposite, the fact that for the last twenty years I have at all parliamentary sittings stood up for freedom and democracy, the fact that being in a senior position in the Government I have joined the main opposition party and is active in it should prove otherwise.

Unlike some others I may not be hasty in endorsing or pursuing certain actions that a minority of our party members demand, this may be mistaken by some as lack of courage on my part but I do not see it that way. I believe that as we are fighting a dictator who had ruled the country for over twenty seven years, we just cannot blindly let emotions and hatred dictate our actions, we should be patient, we just cannot bring democracy overnight or change what people are taught to think. I am being realistic here.

Those educated in democracies may wish to employ certain tactics to pressurize the government which may be considered normal in such countries, but here in the Maldives these are regarded by the majority as inappropriate and would not attract wide participation.

I believe that firstly, we need to free our people from fear and apprehension instilled in their minds.

I believe that an opposition should never miscalculate its opponent, if it does the consequences may be disastrous.

I favour a comprehensive plan of action strengthening our suffering citizens, weakening and finally destroying the dictatorship, and build a durable democracy. It is often the case that dictatorships are often replaced by dictatorships or with anarchy I do not want either to happen in the Maldives. In order to succeed we need to analyse and understand the present situation and adopt a strategy that would bring nothing but true democracy to the Maldives.

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

“Civil Disobedience if Necessary” – says MDP Presidency Candidate Ibrahim Ismail

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Member of Parliament for Male’ Ibrahim Ismail, who is standing for president of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in the upcoming leadership election, set for 15th December.
MN: Are you planning to stand for the leadership of the MDP in the forthcoming Congress?
II: Yes, I have already submitted my intention to compete to the secretariat.
MN: Why?
II: I believe that the leadership contest of MDP must be healthy and robust and as many people from within the party who have the capability and standing for the job must come forward so that in the end, our party will have the best possible person as our leader. In this regard I believe that I am very well suited for the leadership of MDP, and hence I should compete.
More specifically, since my return from overseas in 1993, I have worked within the system of government for 12 years before I resigned from my job to work more independently in the political arena. During my work in the government, I have visited 196 islands of the 200 populated islands in the country, and worked very closely with ordinary people of this country. I am acutely aware of their difficulties, their aspirations and their despair. I have spent time in jail more than once due to my standing up for the people of this country. Hence, I am very aware of what we are up against, and I believe that I have the stamina and will power to confront this oppressive regime.
Additionally, I have worked very closely with most of the international donors to this country such as the World Bank, ADB, IDB, UN Missions, and in the past year, I have been in close contact with representatives of the EU, Commonwealth and various High Commissions and embassies of countries who are expressing concern over the situation in the Maldives. Therefore I am very aware of what needs to be done on the international front.
Furthermore, a large number of people in Male’ and the atolls are in contact with me and I believe that if I am allowed to lead MDP, I can generate even more public support for the party which will be crucial in an election.
MN: MDP has said the party needs to develop a policy manifesto following the leadership election. What sort of policies would you like to see the party develop?
II: MDP already has a party manifesto. What we need to do now is to develop a broad policy framework which will encompass the ideals expressed in the party manifesto. It is a bit early to go into specifics yet, but on the whole, I am firmly committed to policies which will promote a liberal, slightly left of centre kind of environment which will pave the way for a more egalitarian society. A strong component of the kind of policies which I would like to see evolve out of MDP would be with a strong emphasis on promoting human rights and civil liberties and freedoms.
I believe that great emphasis has to be placed on overhauling the entire system of governance in the country. In particular, the judiciary needs radical change, as this is necessary to deliver people out of oppression and to create an environment in which they can live without fear. I would be advocating a policy framework which will allow people to pursue their dreams without inhibition, and where the role of government is minimized mainly to regulatory aspects and encouraging private enterprise and civil society to lead the way forward to build the new Maldives.
In a rapidly changing world, I believe we should be striving to take advantage of newly emerging opportunities, both in the economic and social front. I firmly believe that young Maldivians have the courage, creativity and commitment to take this nation forward in hitherto unthought-of directions. I would like MDP to develop a policy framework which will unleash that energy, and encourage the taking of calculated risks in new directions rather than being tied down to conservative ideas of “what has worked for us in the past.”
Furthermore, it is my view that the current regime has systematically destroyed the spirituality in our community, and along with material development, we must encourage people to engage in spiritual development though a revival of tolerant Islamic values which promotes harmony and morality in society.
MN: What do you think the MDP needs to do to dig the country out of the political hole it is currently in?
II: I believe that MDP needs to be more pro-active, and to develop a framework of devolved decision making which will allow quick decisions to be made. MDP must capitalize on the huge support it has gained at the grassroots and translate this support into peaceful, yet affirmative action at the grassroots to exert more pressure on Qayyoom’s government.
MN: What should the MDP be doing to ensure those arrested following the 12-14 August unrest are released, including the current Chairperson Anni?
II: We must, on all fronts, expose this government for its illegal actions against these detainees. Information dissemination about the truth of the matter is crucial. Further, action at the grassroots is again critical to exert maximum pressure on the government. I believe that while the international community’s concern and action is having an enormous impact, action taken locally is just as important, and it is this action which will prompt further international action. We need to plan and implement a strategy which impacts the government on many fronts, legal, parliamentary, grassroots action extending to civil disobedience if necessary.
We must realize that we are dealing with terrorism endorsed by the state, legitimized through twisted interpretations of the legislation and sabotaging of the judicial system.
MN: Some people have criticised you for not being a team player and being too autocratic in your leadership style. Do you think these criticisms are fair or valid?
II: It depends on what those people define as autocratic. I challenge anyone to quote a single instance when I have acted without consulting either the council or the secretariat, or having contravened a decision of the council. It could be that some people misinterpret strong views as being autocratic. I believe that I have every right to express my opinion, and to strive to sell that opinion and argue for it. But once a collective decision is reached following the argument, then all should stand by that decision. That is democracy and being a team player, as far as I am concerned. To be a leader is to have the vision when others do not. This country needs radical and revolutionary vision to get us out of the pits.

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Member of Parliament for Male’ Ibrahim Ismail, who is standing for president of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in the upcoming leadership election, set for 15th December.

MN: Are you planning to stand for the leadership of the MDP in the forthcoming Congress?

II: Yes, I have already submitted my intention to compete to the secretariat.

MN: Why?

II: I believe that the leadership contest of MDP must be healthy and robust and as many people from within the party who have the capability and standing for the job must come forward so that in the end, our party will have the best possible person as our leader. In this regard I believe that I am very well suited for the leadership of MDP, and hence I should compete.

More specifically, since my return from overseas in 1993, I have worked within the system of government for 12 years before I resigned from my job to work more independently in the political arena. During my work in the government, I have visited 196 islands of the 200 populated islands in the country, and worked very closely with ordinary people of this country. I am acutely aware of their difficulties, their aspirations and their despair. I have spent time in jail more than once due to my standing up for the people of this country. Hence, I am very aware of what we are up against, and I believe that I have the stamina and will power to confront this oppressive regime.

Additionally, I have worked very closely with most of the international donors to this country such as the World Bank, ADB, IDB, UN Missions, and in the past year, I have been in close contact with representatives of the EU, Commonwealth and various High Commissions and embassies of countries who are expressing concern over the situation in the Maldives. Therefore I am very aware of what needs to be done on the international front.

Furthermore, a large number of people in Male’ and the atolls are in contact with me and I believe that if I am allowed to lead MDP, I can generate even more public support for the party which will be crucial in an election.

MN: MDP has said the party needs to develop a policy manifesto following the leadership election. What sort of policies would you like to see the party develop?

II: MDP already has a party manifesto. What we need to do now is to develop a broad policy framework which will encompass the ideals expressed in the party manifesto. It is a bit early to go into specifics yet, but on the whole, I am firmly committed to policies which will promote a liberal, slightly left of centre kind of environment which will pave the way for a more egalitarian society. A strong component of the kind of policies which I would like to see evolve out of MDP would be with a strong emphasis on promoting human rights and civil liberties and freedoms.

I believe that great emphasis has to be placed on overhauling the entire system of governance in the country. In particular, the judiciary needs radical change, as this is necessary to deliver people out of oppression and to create an environment in which they can live without fear. I would be advocating a policy framework which will allow people to pursue their dreams without inhibition, and where the role of government is minimized mainly to regulatory aspects and encouraging private enterprise and civil society to lead the way forward to build the new Maldives.

In a rapidly changing world, I believe we should be striving to take advantage of newly emerging opportunities, both in the economic and social front. I firmly believe that young Maldivians have the courage, creativity and commitment to take this nation forward in hitherto unthought-of directions. I would like MDP to develop a policy framework which will unleash that energy, and encourage the taking of calculated risks in new directions rather than being tied down to conservative ideas of “what has worked for us in the past.”

Furthermore, it is my view that the current regime has systematically destroyed the spirituality in our community, and along with material development, we must encourage people to engage in spiritual development though a revival of tolerant Islamic values which promotes harmony and morality in society.

MN: What do you think the MDP needs to do to dig the country out of the political hole it is currently in?

II: I believe that MDP needs to be more pro-active, and to develop a framework of devolved decision making which will allow quick decisions to be made. MDP must capitalize on the huge support it has gained at the grassroots and translate this support into peaceful, yet affirmative action at the grassroots to exert more pressure on Qayyoom’s government.

MN: What should the MDP be doing to ensure those arrested following the 12-14 August unrest are released, including the current Chairperson Anni?

II: We must, on all fronts, expose this government for its illegal actions against these detainees. Information dissemination about the truth of the matter is crucial. Further, action at the grassroots is again critical to exert maximum pressure on the government. I believe that while the international community’s concern and action is having an enormous impact, action taken locally is just as important, and it is this action which will prompt further international action. We need to plan and implement a strategy which impacts the government on many fronts, legal, parliamentary, grassroots action extending to civil disobedience if necessary.

We must realize that we are dealing with terrorism endorsed by the state, legitimized through twisted interpretations of the legislation and sabotaging of the judicial system.

MN: Some people have criticised you for not being a team player and being too autocratic in your leadership style. Do you think these criticisms are fair or valid?

II: It depends on what those people define as autocratic. I challenge anyone to quote a single instance when I have acted without consulting either the council or the secretariat, or having contravened a decision of the council. It could be that some people misinterpret strong views as being autocratic. I believe that I have every right to express my opinion, and to strive to sell that opinion and argue for it. But once a collective decision is reached following the argument, then all should stand by that decision. That is democracy and being a team player, as far as I am concerned. To be a leader is to have the vision when others do not. This country needs radical and revolutionary vision to get us out of the pits.

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

Why I’m Standing for Leadership of the Maldivian Democratic Party – Dr Waheed

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Dr Waheed, who is standing for president of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in the upcoming leadership election, set for 15th December.
MN: Are you planning to stand for the Presidency of the MDP in the forthcoming party congress?
W: It is my intention to run for MDP party leadership.
MN: Why?
W: There comes a time in every ones life when they have to reflect on what they want to do with their lives. I have now reached a stage where my children are all grown up and I need to do something that brings meaning to my life. I have had a long and successful life as an international civil servant and enjoyed every minute of my work. However, I have always felt a sense of duty to my country because I am what I am only because of my country. I had a good upbringing and an excellent education. At this time in history Maldives needs people with education and experience to take it to the next level of political and economic development. Maldives is going through an historical period of transition which has come about largely due to developments in education and the economy. We need a new generation of leaders who are capable of leading this country into the 21st century. I believe that I am part of that new generation.
I believe that Maldives is ready for an open democratic society. We need leaders who understand the complexities of creating a new political system. My training in political science, international development and education provide a unique combination of skills. I have also gained invaluable experience as an international civil servant working with people of different backgrounds and opinions and in different countries. I bring unique skills in building relationships and mediation.
Anyone who aspires to lead a democratic country must go through a democratic process to qualify for leadership positions. I believe in the process that has been set by the Maldivian Democratic Party. I have been in an elected position as a Member of Parliament for Male’ and won the largest number of votes in the general election. The people in this country know me because of my unique background. I was the first television anchor in the country, the first to receive a doctorate of philosophy, the first to run an open political campaign, and the first Maldivian to attain a director position in the United Nations. Although not as a minister, I have also headed a government ministry and contributed to the establishment of the current education system in the country.
Most of all, I strongly believe that only a democratic and open society can foster the optimum development of human beings. The greatest contribution we can make to others is to give them the space, the resources and the freedom to be the best they can be. Removing the shackles of political oppression and freeing people, both men and women, to think and express their intellectual and creative energies would be the greatest contribution one can make towards his fellow human beings.
MN: MDP has said the party needs to develop a policy manifesto following the leadership election. What sort of policies would you like to see the party develop?
W: We need to develop a concise policy document very soon. It should be a framework document which outlines the party’s basic policies. First, it needs to affirm the principles of democracy, human rights and Islam. Secondly, it needs to outline the fundamental issues we as a party want to address. Based on that analysis, we need to come up with general policy directions for each sector of the economy and society. I believe that a more detailed election manifesto can be drawn up later as we face a general election.
The general policy direction I would like to see the party develop is a strong commitment to an open democratic society while pursuing a policy of economic growth and balanced development between Male’ and the atolls. Due to the historical opportunity presented to us, MDP must outline the political reforms we propose. These will include constitutional reform to achieve effective separation of powers and the establishment and development of democratic institutions. MDP must commit itself to introducing and maintaining free and fair elections, creation of independent election and civil service commissions, and a free press. MDP policy should be to promote civil society and their role in the development of the country.
Tourism must continue to be the backbone of the economy with fisheries becoming a more viable alternative for employment and income generation. MDP should commit itself to a policy of knowledge intensive development with education becoming a more effective tool for full employment and economic growth. Education and heath sectors must put the emphasis on the development of the full potential of every individual and the not on the propagation of a particular system. The role of the state in the provision of social services should be one of setting policies and standards, oversight and guidance. The private sector should take a more effective role in service delivery.
In Maldives, public policy needs to reflect the Islamic foundations of our spiritual development. True democracy rests on foundations of connectivity to nature and spirituality. As Peter Senge of MIT states, only a deep connection with nature provides the inspiration for genuine democratic thinking. “As we loose those connections, isolation, fear and the need to control grows and democracy inevitably deteriorates”. A sustainable vision of social organization needs to consider environmental constraints and the potentials for development in harmony with nature.
MN: What do you think the MDP needs to do to dig the country out of the political hole it is currently in?
W: MDP is facing an extremely difficult choice. Our chairman is in political detention and the party leadership has decided not to discuss reforms with the government until he is released. There seems to be no willingness on the part of the Maldivian government to find a negotiated settlement. There is deep skepticism regarding the government’s sincerity about the reform process. If in case the government decides to pass a sentence on Nasheed despite the statements by international lawyers and observers that the process is deeply flawed, MDP will be put into a very serious position. Such a decision by the government would be a slap on MDP and it would be extremely hard for the party to sit down for talks.
I believe that our friends in the international community need to impress on the Maldivian government to find a more conciliatory approach. MDP will be ready to begin talks immediately after the release of Nasheed. At this point a third party intervention seems to be necessary. MDP needs to make a formal request to a third party, preferably the Commonwealth Secretariat to make this contact.
MN: What should the MDP be doing to ensure those arrested following the 12-14 August unrest are released, including the current Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed (Anni)?
W: The question has been partly answered above. Within Maldives, MDP must continue its call for their release and further intensify the peaceful protest against their continued detention. MDP supporters will continue to call for their release, the black ribbon campaign will continue, and MDP must use all legal means to pressure the government to relent. It will be in the interest of all, including the government to find a peaceful solution to the impasse.
The best option would be for the government to take leadership and start a process of confidence building with the main opposition. A government that has been in power for 27 years must surely have the experience and maturity to deal with this situation in a more peaceful manner. It is the future of this country that is at stake, not just Anni.
MN: Some people have criticised you for staying away from Maldives for the past few years. What is your response to this criticism?
W: I have addressed this issue on several occasions. Frankly, I think too much of a fuss is being made for political reasons. I have no regrets for having taken good care of my children, given them a good education and taken the time to recover from the political injustices my family was subjected to by this government. I have returned with an open mind, much better prepared for responsibility than I was when I was last in government, and most of all I have retained my integrity. I have been consistent in my struggle for democratic reforms in Maldives and have not compromised my principles.
It is precisely the opportunity to remain abroad and work in the United Nations that has given me the skills that are so badly needed in the political processes of reform we are about to embark. I believe that I am the best candidate for MDP leadership and that I can assist the party to successfully challenge the current government in a free and fair election.

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Dr Waheed, who is standing for president of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in the upcoming leadership election, set for 15th December.

MN: Are you planning to stand for the Presidency of the MDP in the forthcoming party congress?

W: It is my intention to run for MDP party leadership.

MN: Why?

W: There comes a time in every ones life when they have to reflect on what they want to do with their lives. I have now reached a stage where my children are all grown up and I need to do something that brings meaning to my life. I have had a long and successful life as an international civil servant and enjoyed every minute of my work. However, I have always felt a sense of duty to my country because I am what I am only because of my country. I had a good upbringing and an excellent education. At this time in history Maldives needs people with education and experience to take it to the next level of political and economic development. Maldives is going through an historical period of transition which has come about largely due to developments in education and the economy. We need a new generation of leaders who are capable of leading this country into the 21st century. I believe that I am part of that new generation.

I believe that Maldives is ready for an open democratic society. We need leaders who understand the complexities of creating a new political system. My training in political science, international development and education provide a unique combination of skills. I have also gained invaluable experience as an international civil servant working with people of different backgrounds and opinions and in different countries. I bring unique skills in building relationships and mediation.

Anyone who aspires to lead a democratic country must go through a democratic process to qualify for leadership positions. I believe in the process that has been set by the Maldivian Democratic Party. I have been in an elected position as a Member of Parliament for Male’ and won the largest number of votes in the general election. The people in this country know me because of my unique background. I was the first television anchor in the country, the first to receive a doctorate of philosophy, the first to run an open political campaign, and the first Maldivian to attain a director position in the United Nations. Although not as a minister, I have also headed a government ministry and contributed to the establishment of the current education system in the country.

Most of all, I strongly believe that only a democratic and open society can foster the optimum development of human beings. The greatest contribution we can make to others is to give them the space, the resources and the freedom to be the best they can be. Removing the shackles of political oppression and freeing people, both men and women, to think and express their intellectual and creative energies would be the greatest contribution one can make towards his fellow human beings.

MN: MDP has said the party needs to develop a policy manifesto following the leadership election. What sort of policies would you like to see the party develop?

W: We need to develop a concise policy document very soon. It should be a framework document which outlines the party’s basic policies. First, it needs to affirm the principles of democracy, human rights and Islam. Secondly, it needs to outline the fundamental issues we as a party want to address. Based on that analysis, we need to come up with general policy directions for each sector of the economy and society. I believe that a more detailed election manifesto can be drawn up later as we face a general election.

The general policy direction I would like to see the party develop is a strong commitment to an open democratic society while pursuing a policy of economic growth and balanced development between Male’ and the atolls. Due to the historical opportunity presented to us, MDP must outline the political reforms we propose. These will include constitutional reform to achieve effective separation of powers and the establishment and development of democratic institutions. MDP must commit itself to introducing and maintaining free and fair elections, creation of independent election and civil service commissions, and a free press. MDP policy should be to promote civil society and their role in the development of the country.

Tourism must continue to be the backbone of the economy with fisheries becoming a more viable alternative for employment and income generation. MDP should commit itself to a policy of knowledge intensive development with education becoming a more effective tool for full employment and economic growth. Education and heath sectors must put the emphasis on the development of the full potential of every individual and the not on the propagation of a particular system. The role of the state in the provision of social services should be one of setting policies and standards, oversight and guidance. The private sector should take a more effective role in service delivery.

In Maldives, public policy needs to reflect the Islamic foundations of our spiritual development. True democracy rests on foundations of connectivity to nature and spirituality. As Peter Senge of MIT states, only a deep connection with nature provides the inspiration for genuine democratic thinking. “As we loose those connections, isolation, fear and the need to control grows and democracy inevitably deteriorates”. A sustainable vision of social organization needs to consider environmental constraints and the potentials for development in harmony with nature.

MN: What do you think the MDP needs to do to dig the country out of the political hole it is currently in?

W: MDP is facing an extremely difficult choice. Our chairman is in political detention and the party leadership has decided not to discuss reforms with the government until he is released. There seems to be no willingness on the part of the Maldivian government to find a negotiated settlement. There is deep skepticism regarding the government’s sincerity about the reform process. If in case the government decides to pass a sentence on Nasheed despite the statements by international lawyers and observers that the process is deeply flawed, MDP will be put into a very serious position. Such a decision by the government would be a slap on MDP and it would be extremely hard for the party to sit down for talks.

I believe that our friends in the international community need to impress on the Maldivian government to find a more conciliatory approach. MDP will be ready to begin talks immediately after the release of Nasheed. At this point a third party intervention seems to be necessary. MDP needs to make a formal request to a third party, preferably the Commonwealth Secretariat to make this contact.

MN: What should the MDP be doing to ensure those arrested following the 12-14 August unrest are released, including the current Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed (Anni)?

W: The question has been partly answered above. Within Maldives, MDP must continue its call for their release and further intensify the peaceful protest against their continued detention. MDP supporters will continue to call for their release, the black ribbon campaign will continue, and MDP must use all legal means to pressure the government to relent. It will be in the interest of all, including the government to find a peaceful solution to the impasse.

The best option would be for the government to take leadership and start a process of confidence building with the main opposition. A government that has been in power for 27 years must surely have the experience and maturity to deal with this situation in a more peaceful manner. It is the future of this country that is at stake, not just Anni.

MN: Some people have criticised you for staying away from Maldives for the past few years. What is your response to this criticism?

W: I have addressed this issue on several occasions. Frankly, I think too much of a fuss is being made for political reasons. I have no regrets for having taken good care of my children, given them a good education and taken the time to recover from the political injustices my family was subjected to by this government. I have returned with an open mind, much better prepared for responsibility than I was when I was last in government, and most of all I have retained my integrity. I have been consistent in my struggle for democratic reforms in Maldives and have not compromised my principles.

It is precisely the opportunity to remain abroad and work in the United Nations that has given me the skills that are so badly needed in the political processes of reform we are about to embark. I believe that I am the best candidate for MDP leadership and that I can assist the party to successfully challenge the current government in a free and fair election.

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

15 Minutes with the Adhaalath Party

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Shaheem, spokesperson for the newly-registered Adhaalath (Justice) Party.

MN: We’ve heard that you’re boycotting the all-party meetings to discuss the Political Parties Bill. Is this true?

Shaheem: The invitation to attend these meetings was extended with the understanding that these meetings would include the three registered political parties. However we failed to see the delegates from one party. Hence we notified the chair [Attorney-General Hassan Saeed, head of the Law Commission who held the meeting] of that. We did not wish the meeting to go on. It is the MDP [Maldivian Democratic Party] delegates who have failed to attend. In reality the MDP is one party who are doing a considerable amount of work to establish a fair democracy in the Maldives. Hence we do not wish the meeting to continue in their absence. Once we notified the chair they decided not to continue with the meeting. They stated that they would try to hold an all-party gathering on the 22nd of this month. They left the door open until the 22nd for written comments about the regulations pertaining to political parties to be submitted.

MN: Will you be prepared to participate in the meeting on the 22nd if MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) remains under arrest?

Shaheem: We have always stated that the government should release Anni. That’s the Adhaalath Party’s position. Those arrested in connection with the events of August 12/13 were arrested for political reasons. If they were arrested for going against the law then it isn’t legal. That’s the way we interpret it. Hence we have always called upon the government to release them with immediate effect. About your question – we have not yet reached a decision on it.

MN: Are you prepared to submit in writing to the Attorney-General your thoughts on the Political Parties Bill as he has suggested or will you also boycott this as the MDP is doing?

Shaheem: In reality what’s happening now is our senior-most people are presently in Fua Mulaku to open a branch. They’ll be coming to Male’ today. We are having a committee meeting tomorrow to discuss this. So we’ve not reached a decision on that issue. As soon as we reach a decision we can inform you or anyone else in the media.

We hope to discuss these issues [the Political Parties Bill] in a meeting in a friendly atmosphere in the presence of delegates from all three parties. Considering that we are trying to establish an entirely new system we will need the assistance and co-operation of everyone at this juncture. We do not wish to go ahead while sidelining one party.

MN: Can you tell us about the main point of discussions held during yesterday’s Adhaalath Party press conference?

Shaheem: At 10.15 last night we had a press meeting at our temporary office yesterday. We wished to enlighten the public and the press about our previous meeting with the Law Commission as the government media had misinterpreted what we had said. That was the reason for last night’s press conference. We answered the questions posed by the press in a fit manner. Our answers would cover the meeting as well as policy issues.

MN: Did you call for President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom or the government’s resignation during the press conference?

Shaheem: Yes. We, on behalf of our party had strongly voiced that all political prisoners be released. We do not feel that we would be able to continue this peacefully otherwise. Hence in the interests of the reforms we are pursuing we call upon the government to dissolve/resign and appoint an interim government.

MN: How do you feel about the way your party has been reported in the government press, such as Haveeru and Aafathis?

Shaheem: It is quite clear to us that the press coverage by the media is very much one sided. And Haveeru had not given a complete report of the Law Commission meeting. They barely touched the surface. There was no mention of the Adhaalath party. Everything is very biased. We want a free and fair press. How else can the truth be told? It is very wrong for newspapers to be in supportive of a certain group. We don’t support it. We want a free and fair press. When the reporting is biased you cannot in all fairness say it’s reporting.

MN: According to the Constitution, it is the President who holds the mandate on defining issues of religion. Does the Adhaalath Party think Gayoom is able to fulfill this duties in a fit manner?

Shaheem: According to article 38 of the constitution it is the President that is fully empowered to define issues of religion. In the Maldives the current status is such that religion has slid back a long way. There is a great loss of respect for the tenets of religion and society is riddled with corruption. Our youth are addicted to drugs; theft, robbery and other criminal activities are common. There are so many massage parlors. The one thing we can deduce from all this is that the powers empowered to the President in defining issues of religion are not utilized in an apt way. He is to be held accountable.

In our meeting we had expressed this reality. Hence we call for broader powers for the Supreme Council dealing with issues of Islam. And the character of the Supreme Council should be free and protected and should be empowered to act in the service of Islam throughout the Maldives.

We have called for the Supreme to appoint the most learned people in the Maldives as members. And we have also called for the Supreme Council to be made the 4th power in the separation of powers. It has to be made a separate power. It has to be a separate, free and sovereign power of the state… While we talk of the separation of 3 powers I propose that this be made the 4th power. It does not mean that religion is separated from the state. Our call is for an Islamic state to protect religion by giving it a separate character.

MN: Can you tell us how close the Adhaalath Party and the Maldivian Democratic Party are policy-wise?

Shaheem: Actually the Adhaalath Party is an independent and sovereign party. The Adhaalath Party does not necessarily conform to the views of others. Adhaalath Party will only back anyone working to institute fairness and justice. Whether it is the DRP or the MDP, the Adhaalath Party will assist anyone from not deviating from the path of righteousness.

In the same manner if Adhaalath Party deviates from the path of righteousness, other parties have the right to work to get Adhaalath to conform to the path of righteousness. Therefore we will maintain friendly relations with all parties. That is the relationship we have with everyone who seeks reform. There are no connections with any party – political or otherwise – up to now. We do not belong to any particular party. We are an independent sovereign power.

MN: Would you be prepared to work with the MDP to quash the injustices in the Maldives?

Shaheem: Yes. Against all injustices… We will co-operate in any work done to quash injustices. We will support anyone – whether it is the MDP or the DRP – working to institute fairness, justice and democracy in the Maldives. We applaud them. We call upon everyone to work to bring about reform within the framework of the Constitution; while abiding by the law.

MN: if the government were to change would you be prepared to work with the MDP during a changeover?

Shaheem: We have not entertained such thoughts yet – to partake in a coalition. If the nation should come to such a juncture, then we will think about it.

Listen to Shaheem’s Interview

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

‘This is the Trial of the MDP Itself’ – Ibrahim Ismail MP

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Ibrahim Ismail, Member of the Majlis for Male’ and a senior figure in the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
MN: What is your assessment of the political situation in the country now – some diplomats have described it as akin to where the Maldives was 12 months ago, would you agree?
II: I think the government tried to appease the international community by allowing political parties and some controlled opposition rallies to create the impression that the reform agenda was underway. But as expected, they have proved that their modus operandi does not have room for democracy. They know that even with a small space granted for freedom of speech and association, they will rapidly lose political ground. So I suspect that the government wants the political system to go backwards to the kind of environment we had 1-1 ½ years ago.
The government is finding it unpalatable to have criticism and it has taken less than three months for them to go back to the old ways of repressing dissent. This is not the kind of thing we would expect from a government committed to democratic reform. The events since July 31st [when the arrests of democrats started in earnest] have proved once and for all that the government does not have any intention of bringing about democratic reform. Their notion of democracy is doing it their way with no criticism or dissent.
MN: What do you think the government is trying to do with Anni [MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed]?
II: In the case of Anni, the issue is very complex. Nasheed has been one of the few people who has persevered for the struggle for democracy against all odds. He has persevered despite all the things the government has done to him and has refused to give-up and refused to accept that the undemocratic practices of the government are OK.
Anni is symbolic for the government and for the people. For the people, he has come to represent the democratic aspirations of the nation. For the government, he is symbolic because he represents the ultimate threat – here is someone who will not be bowed, who will keep going, who has the capacity to group people as an opposition. He is seen as the personification of all opposition to the government and very senior people in government now have personal animosity towards him. All these things combined make Anni the sacrificial lamb.
The government believes that by creating all this propaganda about the MDP they can kill the opposition, but I can assure you, the recent behaviour by Gayoom will haunt him to his grave.
MN: How many of your constituents are in jail at the moment?
II: There is great difficulty giving a precise number as the government is everyday releasing some people and arresting others. Also, many people arrested in Male’ are not registered there… but I can say that a significant number of my constituents are in jail.
MN: What can you do, as their elected representative, to ensure that the rights of your constituents in jail are not violated?
II: Members of Parliament in the Maldives have very limited power. The powers we do have are not clearly defined and are restricted to the chambers of the Majlis.
I have, on numerous occasions and before these recent arrests as well, written formally to government officials on various issues and they don’t ever bother to reply. I demand access to them and they refuse and they don’t take my phone calls. There is very little I can do under the present set-up. The only thing I can do is question Ministers in the Majlis and, of course, the government has deliberately closed parliament at this moment.
I have requested that the Human Rights Commission (HRC) holds a public enquiry into the present situation. They need to conduct an independent enquiry into the events of the 12-14th August because a number of my constituents have complained of suffering from injustices such as mass arrests and their homes being violated. So, many people’s fundamental rights appear to have been abused. The HRC is the only independent body in the country that could carry-out such an investigation, free from political interference.
MN: How does the MDP move forward from the present situation?
II: The MDP has suffered critical injuries. The Chairman is arrested and charged with very serious offenses. Even more that that, the government and the government media – remember 3 out of 4 of the dailies are pro-government – has been constantly accusing the MDP of all sorts of untrue things. The government has also curtailed all the activities of the party. They won’t allow us to hire a space for a meeting, for instance. All this is designed to damage the reputation of the party and create fear so people will be scared to associate with the MDP.
This is the trial of the MDP itself. A one-sided trial in court of our Chairperson and a trial which is also being played out in the government’s media. Anni is symbolic of the party. The government is trying to give the message that if they can do this to Anni, they can do this to anyone.
But after 2-3 days since the arrests, I’m happy to say that the public turned back in favour of the MDP, after they had time to assess the situation for themselves.
It will take time to work out the extent of the damage to the party, but I can very confidently assure people we will work this out and if there was ever a free and fair election we would win. I am very confident of that.

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Ibrahim Ismail, Member of the Majlis for Male’ and a senior figure in the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

MN: What is your assessment of the political situation in the country now – some diplomats have described it as akin to where the Maldives was 12 months ago, would you agree?

II: I think the government tried to appease the international community by allowing political parties and some controlled opposition rallies to create the impression that the reform agenda was underway. But as expected, they have proved that their modus operandi does not have room for democracy. They know that even with a small space granted for freedom of speech and association, they will rapidly lose political ground. So I suspect that the government wants the political system to go backwards to the kind of environment we had 1-1 ½ years ago.

The government is finding it unpalatable to have criticism and it has taken less than three months for them to go back to the old ways of repressing dissent. This is not the kind of thing we would expect from a government committed to democratic reform. The events since July 31st [when the arrests of democrats started in earnest] have proved once and for all that the government does not have any intention of bringing about democratic reform. Their notion of democracy is doing it their way with no criticism or dissent.

MN: What do you think the government is trying to do with Anni [MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed]?

II: In the case of Anni, the issue is very complex. Nasheed has been one of the few people who has persevered for the struggle for democracy against all odds. He has persevered despite all the things the government has done to him and has refused to give-up and refused to accept that the undemocratic practices of the government are OK.

Anni is symbolic for the government and for the people. For the people, he has come to represent the democratic aspirations of the nation. For the government, he is symbolic because he represents the ultimate threat – here is someone who will not be bowed, who will keep going, who has the capacity to group people as an opposition. He is seen as the personification of all opposition to the government and very senior people in government now have personal animosity towards him. All these things combined make Anni the sacrificial lamb.

The government believes that by creating all this propaganda about the MDP they can kill the opposition, but I can assure you, the recent behaviour by Gayoom will haunt him to his grave.

MN: How many of your constituents are in jail at the moment?

II: There is great difficulty giving a precise number as the government is everyday releasing some people and arresting others. Also, many people arrested in Male’ are not registered there… but I can say that a significant number of my constituents are in jail.

MN: What can you do, as their elected representative, to ensure that the rights of your constituents in jail are not violated?

II: Members of Parliament in the Maldives have very limited power. The powers we do have are not clearly defined and are restricted to the chambers of the Majlis.

I have, on numerous occasions and before these recent arrests as well, written formally to government officials on various issues and they don’t ever bother to reply. I demand access to them and they refuse and they don’t take my phone calls. There is very little I can do under the present set-up. The only thing I can do is question Ministers in the Majlis and, of course, the government has deliberately closed parliament at this moment.

I have requested that the Human Rights Commission (HRC) holds a public enquiry into the present situation. They need to conduct an independent enquiry into the events of the 12-14th August because a number of my constituents have complained of suffering from injustices such as mass arrests and their homes being violated. So, many people’s fundamental rights appear to have been abused. The HRC is the only independent body in the country that could carry-out such an investigation, free from political interference.

MN: How does the MDP move forward from the present situation?

II: The MDP has suffered critical injuries. The Chairman is arrested and charged with very serious offenses. Even more that that, the government and the government media – remember 3 out of 4 of the dailies are pro-government – has been constantly accusing the MDP of all sorts of untrue things. The government has also curtailed all the activities of the party. They won’t allow us to hire a space for a meeting, for instance. All this is designed to damage the reputation of the party and create fear so people will be scared to associate with the MDP.

This is the trial of the MDP itself. A one-sided trial in court of our Chairperson and a trial which is also being played out in the government’s media. Anni is symbolic of the party. The government is trying to give the message that if they can do this to Anni, they can do this to anyone.

But after 2-3 days since the arrests, I’m happy to say that the public turned back in favour of the MDP, after they had time to assess the situation for themselves.

It will take time to work out the extent of the damage to the party, but I can very confidently assure people we will work this out and if there was ever a free and fair election we would win. I am very confident of that.

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

“Big Challenge for Maldives Government is to Live Upto People’s Expectations of Democratic Reform” – Dutch Ambassador Susan Blankhart

Minivan Radio spends 15 Minutes with Her Excellency Susan Blankhart, the Dutch Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives

As Britain takes over the presidency of the European Union, Minivan News asks the outgoing Dutch Ambassador – who headed EU-Maldives negotiations over the last six months – about her assessment of the recent political events in the Maldives.

MR: In September 2004, following the August 12-13th crack-down by the Maldivian authorities, the European Parliament voted unanimously for European Union member states to impose sanctions on the Maldives. Would it be fair to say this represented the lowest point in Maldives-EU relations in recent years?

SB: Well, it depends how you look upon that. Maybe its not the lowest point in the Maldives-EU relations because the EU showed real engagement about what was happening in the Maldives so in that sense you could also say this was the starting point of an engagement and interest of the European Union in what is happening in the Maldives.

Of course, it was only a suggestion of the European Parliament for a number of measures to be taken but subsequently we saw more positive developments.

MR: On December 31st President Gayoom decided to drop the charges against those who were arrested in August. Did this decision move EU sanctions off the political agenda?

SB: Yes. We noted the dropping of the charges with a great sense of relief. But for the European Union wherever we are, in whichever country, human rights issues remain very much on the political agenda so we will closely monitor the developments to come in the next year.

MR: This year there have been a number of political reforms in the Maldives. How much further down the road to democracy is the EU looking for President Gayoom to travel?

SB: Well, we think that the coming year is a very crucial period. There are a lot of expectations with the people. People have a broad knowledge nowadays on democracy and democratic reforms, a large knowledge, in general, on human rights. The expectations are there and I think now for the government there is a big challenge to manage these expectations and to also live upto the expectations of the people in regards to the democratic reforms they are expecting now.

MR: What specific changes is the EU particularly interested to see in the Maldives?

SB: Well, we look at the general conventions that have been written and have been accepted by the Maldives. The general convention on human rights, political rights… transparency. So we hope that the Maldivian government can live upto all these different elements of the human rights conventions which are in existence.

MR: Is the EU concerned about the reports of a recent custodial death (Muaviath Mahmood) and allegations of police torture, for instance of Maaish Mohamed?

SB: Well, in general the European Union is very much monitoring any human rights abuses all over the world so also in this case we are looking at this issue.

MR: Have you always found the Maldivian government an easy partner to work with over the last six months?

SB: Well, over the last six months we experienced a very constructive dialogue with the government and we have felt a real sense of urgency with the government – a sense of willingness to come to democratic reforms. So in that sense it has been a good partner to work with because we are both I think having the same expectations towards democratic reform.

MR: Is EU policy vis à vis the Maldives likely to change significantly as Britain takes over the Presidency of the EU from the Netherlands?

SB: Britain will take over the local presidency of the European Union as of the 1st of July. The Maldives have been very much discussed within the European Union… [changes] are unlikely because we have always acted as a European Union. We didn’t act as the Netherlands government but as the European Union so we acted on a consensus approach.

Listen to Susan Blankhart’s Interview

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

15 Minutes with Philip Frayne of the US Embassy in Colombo

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Philip Frayne, Public Affairs Officer for the US Embassy in Colombo. Here are some extracts from the interview, which you can also listen to in full by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page.
Philip Frayne stated that the United States is interested in what goes on in a small country such as the Maldives: “we are interested in what happens in the Maldives because we think it is a country with great potential” he said.
Touching on the recent political events, Frayne stated that the United States is “encouraged by the recent political opening that we have seen, the registration of the MDP for example, was an encouraging sign. We are encouraged by recent statements made by President Gayoom.”
Frayne also outlined some of the work the US government has been doing to improve relations and increase understanding between the people of the United States and the Maldives.
A number of exchange programmes have been established he said, and a recently established Fullbright scholarship programme – where scholars in the US come to study the Maldives and Maldivians go to America – was “to continue”.
Also, an international visitor study programme is to start between Maldives and United States, where 6-8 Maldivians will go to the United States to study different aspects of American society and politics – including grass-roots activism, literature, volunteerism, and the media.
America is also working on the cultural front. “In April, we had an American Blues Quartet [play in Male’] and we were very pleased about how that turned out… I think it was the first time a live professional Blues group has performed in the Maldives” he said.
We also recently had a photography exhibit of roadside architecture in the National Library which gave Maldivians a slice of American culture that you don’t normally get.”
“In September, we are planning for the Maldivian-American Friendship Week and in that week we hope to have some more live music but we will also have a trade show with emphasis on bilateral trade and we may have educational seminars… about study opportunities in the US and possibly a cooking demonstration of American cuisine and a military visit by an American ship. The week will emphasis the friendship and deepening ties we are developing between the United States and the Maldives.”
“We also recently got funding for a cultural preservation project in Male’. The oldest mosque in Male’ – the Eid Mosque – is in need of restoration and preservation and we got a grant from the State Department [Foreign Ministry of the US government] to help in that preservation… and that work should get started sometime this year.”
When asked how America pursues the democratizing policies of its President in the Maldives, Frayne said:
“We had made a statement from the State Department last year after the August disturbances in Male’ after which a lot of people were arrested and we came out with a statement saying that we have serious concerns over the people arrested. In our visits to the Maldives we did visit some of those prisoners while they were imprisoned or under house arrest. We kept very close track of that and we made our concerns known to the government in the Maldives. So we try and do it through public statements but also through private diplomacy urging the government to open up.”
“America promotes democracy, freedom of expression and a pluralistic media everywhere [in the world]” he further said, also pointing out a speech delivered by Condelezza Rice in Cairo last week:
“She was fairly critical of the Egyptian government – a long time very close ally of the United States. And yet here she was in the middle of Cairo giving a speech saying that the Egyptian government needs to lead the way in democratization in the Middle East with their upcoming Presidential Elections. So I wouldn’t say this is an exclusive concern in the Maldives or anywhere else but one of the priorities of the Bush administration, if not the leading priority, is to promote democracy throughout the world.”
He further outlined that achieving peace and stability under democratic governments was the objective of the United States in Iraq and Afghanistan and said the “preservation of human rights has been a long-term plank of US foreign policy.”
“I’d like your listeners in the Maldives to understand that we are not taking action against Muslims anywhere. Our actions are not directed against Muslims…One of the things we try to protect are Muslim human rights” he said noting that Saddam killed an estimated 300,000 Muslims in Iraq and the US interventions in the Balkans, Somalia and Afghanistan were for the protection of the rights of Muslims. “Our foreign policy is to protect human rights… we are not anti-Muslim.”
Speaking on the perception of the United States in the Maldives and amongst the ‘democratic forces’ he said: “I think the perception of the United States in the Maldives is pretty good…I can’t speak for opposition or democratic forces in the Maldives…but I think [the perception] is generally pretty good.”
“We like to push for pluralisation and democratization in a friendly conversation with the government of the Maldives. We are not anti-government by any stretch of the imagination but we will when we have concerns – as we did last year –bring it up with the government and let them know clearly that that’s how we feel.”

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Philip Frayne, Public Affairs Officer for the US Embassy in Colombo. Here are some extracts from the interview, which you can also listen to in full by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page.

Philip Frayne stated that the United States is interested in what goes on in a small country such as the Maldives: “we are interested in what happens in the Maldives because we think it is a country with great potential” he said.

Touching on the recent political events, Frayne stated that the United States is “encouraged by the recent political opening that we have seen, the registration of the MDP for example, was an encouraging sign. We are encouraged by recent statements made by President Gayoom.”

Frayne also outlined some of the work the US government has been doing to improve relations and increase understanding between the people of the United States and the Maldives.

A number of exchange programmes have been established he said, and a recently established Fullbright scholarship programme – where scholars in the US come to study the Maldives and Maldivians go to America – was “to continue”.

Also, an international visitor study programme is to start between Maldives and United States, where 6-8 Maldivians will go to the United States to study different aspects of American society and politics – including grass-roots activism, literature, volunteerism, and the media.

America is also working on the cultural front. “In April, we had an American Blues Quartet [play in Male’] and we were very pleased about how that turned out… I think it was the first time a live professional Blues group has performed in the Maldives” he said.

We also recently had a photography exhibit of roadside architecture in the National Library which gave Maldivians a slice of American culture that you don’t normally get.”

“In September, we are planning for the Maldivian-American Friendship Week and in that week we hope to have some more live music but we will also have a trade show with emphasis on bilateral trade and we may have educational seminars… about study opportunities in the US and possibly a cooking demonstration of American cuisine and a military visit by an American ship. The week will emphasis the friendship and deepening ties we are developing between the United States and the Maldives.”

“We also recently got funding for a cultural preservation project in Male’. The oldest mosque in Male’ – the Eid Mosque – is in need of restoration and preservation and we got a grant from the State Department [Foreign Ministry of the US government] to help in that preservation… and that work should get started sometime this year.”

When asked how America pursues the democratizing policies of its President in the Maldives, Frayne said:

“We had made a statement from the State Department last year after the August disturbances in Male’ after which a lot of people were arrested and we came out with a statement saying that we have serious concerns over the people arrested. In our visits to the Maldives we did visit some of those prisoners while they were imprisoned or under house arrest. We kept very close track of that and we made our concerns known to the government in the Maldives. So we try and do it through public statements but also through private diplomacy urging the government to open up.”

“America promotes democracy, freedom of expression and a pluralistic media everywhere [in the world]” he further said, also pointing out a speech delivered by Condelezza Rice in Cairo last week:

“She was fairly critical of the Egyptian government – a long time very close ally of the United States. And yet here she was in the middle of Cairo giving a speech saying that the Egyptian government needs to lead the way in democratization in the Middle East with their upcoming Presidential Elections. So I wouldn’t say this is an exclusive concern in the Maldives or anywhere else but one of the priorities of the Bush administration, if not the leading priority, is to promote democracy throughout the world.”

He further outlined that achieving peace and stability under democratic governments was the objective of the United States in Iraq and Afghanistan and said the “preservation of human rights has been a long-term plank of US foreign policy.”

“I’d like your listeners in the Maldives to understand that we are not taking action against Muslims anywhere. Our actions are not directed against Muslims…One of the things we try to protect are Muslim human rights” he said noting that Saddam killed an estimated 300,000 Muslims in Iraq and the US interventions in the Balkans, Somalia and Afghanistan were for the protection of the rights of Muslims. “Our foreign policy is to protect human rights… we are not anti-Muslim.”

Speaking on the perception of the United States in the Maldives and amongst the ‘democratic forces’ he said: “I think the perception of the United States in the Maldives is pretty good…I can’t speak for opposition or democratic forces in the Maldives…but I think [the perception] is generally pretty good.”

“We like to push for pluralisation and democratization in a friendly conversation with the government of the Maldives. We are not anti-government by any stretch of the imagination but we will when we have concerns – as we did last year –bring it up with the government and let them know clearly that that’s how we feel.”

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)

15 Minutes with Leading Businessman Ahamma

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Ahmed Zahir (Ahamma).
Ahmed Zahir is a leading personality in the Maldivian business community and he has represented in the private sector at many international forums. He was a past deputy secretary general of the Maldivian National Chamber of Commerce and Industries and is a director of a leading business in the country.
Q: As a respected and experienced member of the Maldivian business community, what is your response to the introduction of a multiparty political system to the country?
A: I welcome it with all my heart. As Maldivians become more exposed to the rest of the world, their eyes have increasingly been opened to the advantages that greater political freedom has to offer. By this I mean political and economic stability and social justice.
There can be no economic stability without political stability, and I believe that such an outcome can best be achieved under a liberal democratic system based on political pluralism. I welcome the President’s decision to create a system such as this by allowing parties such as the MDP to function as legitimate political entities and take their message to the people.
Q: Are you a member of any political party?
A: Yes, I am a proud member of the MDP.
Q: Why MDP?
A: I have had long association with leading activists of MDP. I worked very close with almost the entire MDP Council in the 1999 campaign to get Anni [Mohamed Nasheed] to the Majlis. Even at that time the key strategist was Latheef and people like councilors Mausoom, Ibra, Naseer, Jenny, Ali Hashim, Ziatte, Saeed, Nazim and Suzan.
I believe that these individuals have carried the same vision of social, political and economic development with them to the MDP. I certainly share their vision of social justice and that is why I’m proud to be in MDP.
Q: The MDP has been criticized in this newspaper for not having policies. Perhaps I should say it has been ‘encouraged’ to develop them. As a leading businessman what type of economic policy do you want from MDP?
A: My conversation with MDP leadership convinces me that they support an open market economic policy. However, they also strongly believe in a comprehensive social welfare programme. You cannot have a just, equitable or even a really stable economy with 42% of the people living in abject poverty.
Low wages and minimal employment opportunities are just the tip of the iceberg. Our people have been saddled with the high cost of basic utilities such as water and electricity. They can barely make ends meet. Most Maldivians cannot even afford basic education and healthcare.
Any economy must have reasonably equitable distribution of the country’s wealth. MDP does not believe in giving people handouts or expropriating existing wealth that has been accumulated. People should be able to keep what they create.
Rather, the party wishes to give people a helping hand by providing them with equal opportunities so that everyone can compete on a level playing field. This is why basic education and health care are so important.
The is why I support the MDP leadership’s aim to provide education upto Grade Twelve throughout the country and for basic healthcare to be provided free at the point of delivery. Policies such as these are important even if businessmen are to make money and create wealth.
Q: What do you suggest the MDP does to create wealth?
A: MDP has many options. Whatever options they choose to take, I suggest a decentralized economy where even the economically disadvantaged have the opportunity to take part.
One thing I constantly worry about is the astronomical rate of unemployment in our country. A recent newspaper in Male’ estimated it to be 50%.
Many school leavers have not been provided with adequate employable skills they need in order to enter the world of work. Let down by the education system, they have been pushed to the margins of society where they find themselves ensnared in a world of crime and drug addiction.
This is a HUGE social and political problem and MDP wants to do something about it. For the sake of the economy – and for the sake of the overall health of the nation – skills development and job creation must be a priority.
Government firstly needs to create a healthy environment for wealth creation. Only then can wealth actually be created. Only then can so many of our youths who have been drained of faith and hope be brought back into mainstream society as respectable and responsible citizens. The MDP’s message is one of hope. Again, this is why I am proud to be a member.
Q: How exactly can MDP create wealth that the present government is unable
to do?
A: I can tell you some, mostly political, steps that any government can take to strengthen the economy. Businessmen and investors need a secure business environment. A more accountable, transparent system of government is needed. An independent judiciary is vital. The rule of law must be upheld.
These are steps necessary to eliminate corruption and waste. A more rational, fair, rules-based and imaginative economic system will give confidence to investors and avoid the flight of capital that we now have.
This is what we need to create more and more evenly spread wealth in our society. I believe we can increase our per capita income to over $5000. A high per capita income can help bring about democracy and a stable political system faster.
Q: What should be MDP’s policy on state-owned enterprises?
A: I think all state owned enterprises, especially traders like STO, must be transferred to private ownership. The job of the government should be to facilitate private enterprise through a good legal environment. I understand that even the World Bank has advised that enterprises like STO should be privatized. In my opinion, state involvement in business leads to too much corruption.
Q: The present government is heavily criticized, especially by the tourism sector, of never listening to the demands of business. Should the government consult the private sector on running the economy?
A: Of course! In most well managed economies the governments consult extensively with the private sector.
National budgets are prepared after very close consultation with the private sector. Since the private sector creates wealth, it makes sense that they have a say in economic decisions.
The private sector and the government must form a close partnership for the sake of national development. Since many of the MDP leaders are members or ex-members of business organizations and have been involved in the Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, I believe they have the experience and the knowledge to ensure that such a partnership for development can be initiated and sustained.
This is the key to economic success for our nation. This is how greater wealth can be created and enjoyed, not only by us, but by our children and by our children’s children.
Our country has been stuck in neutral gear for far too long. MDP offers a vision of economic and social justice that will allow our nation to accelerate into a future of prosperity and progress. The MDP has the vision and with the support of the people, I am confident that it will deliver us this brighter future.

Minivan News spends 15 Minutes with Ahmed Zahir (Ahamma).

Ahmed Zahir is a leading personality in the Maldivian business community and he has represented in the private sector at many international forums. He was a past deputy secretary general of the Maldivian National Chamber of Commerce and Industries and is a director of a leading business in the country.

Q: As a respected and experienced member of the Maldivian business community, what is your response to the introduction of a multiparty political system to the country?

A: I welcome it with all my heart. As Maldivians become more exposed to the rest of the world, their eyes have increasingly been opened to the advantages that greater political freedom has to offer. By this I mean political and economic stability and social justice.

There can be no economic stability without political stability, and I believe that such an outcome can best be achieved under a liberal democratic system based on political pluralism. I welcome the President’s decision to create a system such as this by allowing parties such as the MDP to function as legitimate political entities and take their message to the people.

Q: Are you a member of any political party?

A: Yes, I am a proud member of the MDP.

Q: Why MDP?

A: I have had long association with leading activists of MDP. I worked very close with almost the entire MDP Council in the 1999 campaign to get Anni [Mohamed Nasheed] to the Majlis. Even at that time the key strategist was Latheef and people like councilors Mausoom, Ibra, Naseer, Jenny, Ali Hashim, Ziatte, Saeed, Nazim and Suzan.

I believe that these individuals have carried the same vision of social, political and economic development with them to the MDP. I certainly share their vision of social justice and that is why I’m proud to be in MDP.

Q: The MDP has been criticized in this newspaper for not having policies. Perhaps I should say it has been ‘encouraged’ to develop them. As a leading businessman what type of economic policy do you want from MDP?

A: My conversation with MDP leadership convinces me that they support an open market economic policy. However, they also strongly believe in a comprehensive social welfare programme. You cannot have a just, equitable or even a really stable economy with 42% of the people living in abject poverty.

Low wages and minimal employment opportunities are just the tip of the iceberg. Our people have been saddled with the high cost of basic utilities such as water and electricity. They can barely make ends meet. Most Maldivians cannot even afford basic education and healthcare.

Any economy must have reasonably equitable distribution of the country’s wealth. MDP does not believe in giving people handouts or expropriating existing wealth that has been accumulated. People should be able to keep what they create.

Rather, the party wishes to give people a helping hand by providing them with equal opportunities so that everyone can compete on a level playing field. This is why basic education and health care are so important.

The is why I support the MDP leadership’s aim to provide education upto Grade Twelve throughout the country and for basic healthcare to be provided free at the point of delivery. Policies such as these are important even if businessmen are to make money and create wealth.

Q: What do you suggest the MDP does to create wealth?

A: MDP has many options. Whatever options they choose to take, I suggest a decentralized economy where even the economically disadvantaged have the opportunity to take part.

One thing I constantly worry about is the astronomical rate of unemployment in our country. A recent newspaper in Male’ estimated it to be 50%.

Many school leavers have not been provided with adequate employable skills they need in order to enter the world of work. Let down by the education system, they have been pushed to the margins of society where they find themselves ensnared in a world of crime and drug addiction.

This is a HUGE social and political problem and MDP wants to do something about it. For the sake of the economy – and for the sake of the overall health of the nation – skills development and job creation must be a priority.

Government firstly needs to create a healthy environment for wealth creation. Only then can wealth actually be created. Only then can so many of our youths who have been drained of faith and hope be brought back into mainstream society as respectable and responsible citizens. The MDP’s message is one of hope. Again, this is why I am proud to be a member.

Q: How exactly can MDP create wealth that the present government is unable

to do?

A: I can tell you some, mostly political, steps that any government can take to strengthen the economy. Businessmen and investors need a secure business environment. A more accountable, transparent system of government is needed. An independent judiciary is vital. The rule of law must be upheld.

These are steps necessary to eliminate corruption and waste. A more rational, fair, rules-based and imaginative economic system will give confidence to investors and avoid the flight of capital that we now have.

This is what we need to create more and more evenly spread wealth in our society. I believe we can increase our per capita income to over $5000. A high per capita income can help bring about democracy and a stable political system faster.

Q: What should be MDP’s policy on state-owned enterprises?

A: I think all state owned enterprises, especially traders like STO, must be transferred to private ownership. The job of the government should be to facilitate private enterprise through a good legal environment. I understand that even the World Bank has advised that enterprises like STO should be privatized. In my opinion, state involvement in business leads to too much corruption.

Q: The present government is heavily criticized, especially by the tourism sector, of never listening to the demands of business. Should the government consult the private sector on running the economy?

A: Of course! In most well managed economies the governments consult extensively with the private sector.

National budgets are prepared after very close consultation with the private sector. Since the private sector creates wealth, it makes sense that they have a say in economic decisions.

The private sector and the government must form a close partnership for the sake of national development. Since many of the MDP leaders are members or ex-members of business organizations and have been involved in the Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, I believe they have the experience and the knowledge to ensure that such a partnership for development can be initiated and sustained.

This is the key to economic success for our nation. This is how greater wealth can be created and enjoyed, not only by us, but by our children and by our children’s children.

Our country has been stuck in neutral gear for far too long. MDP offers a vision of economic and social justice that will allow our nation to accelerate into a future of prosperity and progress. The MDP has the vision and with the support of the people, I am confident that it will deliver us this brighter future.

Likes(0)Dislikes(0)