Maldives Suspends 3 Junior Ministers After Spat Over Modi
New Delhi: In response to a significant diplomatic embarrassment, the Maldives government has suspended three junior ministers — Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Mahzoom Majid — for using derogatory language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media. The move came after India raised the matter through diplomatic channels, prompting a diplomatic crisis.
The Maldives government, facing backlash and strained relations, distanced itself from the statements made by its deputy ministers, stressing on the need for exercising freedom of expression responsibly to maintain close relationships with international partners.
"All government officials responsible for the comments have been suspended from their posts effective immediately," stated Maldives government spokesperson Ibrahim Khaleel.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's administration condemned the derogatory words and mockery directed at Modi. Coincidentally, the Maldives government website briefly crashed as Indians responded online to the ministers' statements.
In an official statement, the Maldives government asserted that derogatory remarks on social media against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals were personal opinions and did not represent the government's views. The government emphasised the importance of exercising freedom of expression in a democratic and responsible manner.
The controversy originated when the three ministers responded to an Indian social media user's comments, with Mariyam Shiuna referring to Modi as a 'puppet of Israel.' Following the backlash, Mahzoom Majid deactivated his Twitter account and apologised for his comments.
The incident unfolded a day after Modi posted pictures of Lakshadweep's pristine beaches, urging Indians to explore the natural beauty of India's smallest Union Territory. The derogatory comments from the Maldives ministers sparked internet trolling and political criticism, even from within the Maldives Opposition.
Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed denounced the comments, calling India a "key ally" for the security and prosperity of the archipelago nation. Opposition leaders, including Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, condemned the use of hateful language and emphasised the importance of maintaining respectful relations with India.
Former foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and other political figures urged the Maldives government to reprimand the officials, pointing to the historic ties and bonds of friendship with India. The incident has raised concerns about the potential negative impact on the longstanding friendship between the two countries if such disrespectful comments are not addressed by the Maldives government.
