Dr. Mohammed Muizzu, the President of the Maldives, finds himself at a pivotal juncture in his political career. As he navigates his presidency, the challenge before him is not only to govern effectively but to emerge from the shadow of his predecessor, Abdulla Yameen. Muizzu’s ascent to the presidency brings with it expectations of change, progress, and a break from the contentious politics of the past. Yet, his actions thus far have drawn criticism for their perceived continuity with Yameen’s controversial legacy, particularly in terms of international alignments and domestic policies.
A Break from the Past
Abdulla Yameen’s presidency was marked by a tilt towards China and a crackdown on dissent, leading to concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the rise of authoritarianism. Dr. Muizzu, who was Yameen’s protégé, now faces the crucial task of proving his independence and commitment to a different path. The people of the Maldives are looking for a leader who can rise above partisan politics and address the pressing issues of economic development, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion.
Governing Like a President
One of the most pressing criticisms of Dr. Muizzu is that he continues to govern with a mayoral mindset, focusing on short-term, localized issues rather than adopting a broader, more strategic vision necessary for a national leader. As president, Muizzu must pivot towards a governance style that emphasizes long-term planning, international diplomacy, and comprehensive policy-making.
The China Dilemma
Dr. Muizzu faces the formidable challenge of managing his country’s significant dependency on China. This relationship, cultivated during the tenure of his predecessor Abdulla Yameen, has brought both opportunities and risks. While Chinese investments have fueled infrastructure development, they have also led to a burgeoning debt crisis that threatens the economic stability of the Maldives.
During Yameen’s presidency, China emerged as a major economic partner for the Maldives. Massive infrastructure projects, including the Sinamale Bridge (also known as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge) and the expansion of Velana International Airport, were financed and constructed with Chinese assistance. These projects aimed to modernize the Maldives’ infrastructure and bolster its tourism-dependent economy.
However, the influx of Chinese loans has come at a high cost. The Maldives’ debt to China has soared, raising concerns about a debt trap scenario. As of 2023, the Maldives owed China over $1.5 billion, a substantial amount for a small island nation with limited revenue sources. This debt burden places significant strain on the country’s finances, with a large portion of government revenue diverted towards servicing these loans.
Dr. Muizzu, inheriting this complex economic landscape, must navigate the delicate balance of leveraging Chinese investment while managing the risks associated with mounting debt. His administration continues to rely on China for ongoing and new projects, reflecting a dependency that is challenging to break given the scale of Chinese involvement in the Maldivian economy.
The India Out Mindset
In the intricate world of international diplomacy, optics matter as much as actions. Dr. Mohammed Muizzu, the President of the Maldives, has found himself walking a tightrope in his relations with India, a crucial neighbor and strategic partner. His administration’s posture towards India has been marked by phases of arrogance and deference, reflecting the complex interplay of domestic politics and international dependencies.
In the months leading up to his presidency, Muizzu’s rhetoric often echoed the anti-India sentiments that were a hallmark of his predecessor, Abdulla Yameen’s administration, especially the ‘India Out’ campaign. Yameen’s tenure was characterized by a tilt towards China, frequently at the expense of the historically strong ties with India. This approach found some resonance domestically, where a segment of the population viewed India’s influence with suspicion. Muizzu’s initial posturing suggested a continuation of this hardline stance, showcasing a certain level of arrogance towards India.
However, the geopolitical and economic realities of governing a small island nation quickly set in. The Maldives, grappling with substantial external debt, much of it owed to China, faced a daunting fiscal challenge. As Muizzu settled into his role, the necessity of balancing international relations became apparent. India’s strategic and economic significance to the Maldives could not be ignored. India has been a steadfast ally, providing critical support during times of crisis, including during the COVID-19 pandemic and various economic downturns.
Muizzu’s presence at the swearing-in ceremony, sharing a dinner table with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked a significant diplomatic pivot. The optics of this engagement were telling. It was a moment that signaled a pragmatic shift from prior arrogance to a more conciliatory and cooperative stance. By engaging with Modi, Muizzu demonstrated an understanding that mending and nurturing the relationship with India was essential for his administration’s broader goals.
Central to this diplomatic pivot is the hope that India will assist in restructuring the Maldives’ rising debt. The Maldives owes a significant amount to India, and debt restructuring could provide much-needed fiscal relief. India, with its vested interest in the stability and prosperity of the Indian Ocean region, has a track record of supporting its neighbors. Muizzu’s engagement with Modi was, therefore, a strategic move aimed at securing this support.
Addressing Islamic Radicalism
Another significant challenge is the rise of Islamic radicalism. The Maldives, with its small population, has seen an alarming number of citizens being radicalized. Muizzu’s administration needs to take a firm stand against extremism, promoting a moderate and inclusive interpretation of Islam that aligns with the nation’s traditions and values. Strengthening education, creating economic opportunities, and fostering community resilience are vital steps in combating radical ideologies.
While seeking India’s assistance, Muizzu must also manage domestic expectations and sentiments. The anti-India rhetoric that served as a political tool during his campaign cannot be entirely discarded without risking backlash from his support base. Yet, the pressing economic realities necessitate a balanced approach, where diplomatic relations are navigated with both finesse and pragmatism.
Vision for the Future
For Muizzu to truly emerge as a leader for the future, he must focus on sustainable development that benefits all Maldivians. This includes addressing climate change, which poses an existential threat to the island nation. Investing in renewable energy, protecting marine ecosystems, and building resilient infrastructure should be top priorities. Additionally, promoting tourism in a way that is both economically beneficial and environmentally sustainable can help secure long-term prosperity.
Dr. Mohammed Muizzu’s presidency holds the promise of a new era for the Maldives. However, to fulfill this potential, he must step out of Abdulla Yameen’s shadow and demonstrate a commitment to democratic values, balanced international relations, and a future-oriented vision. The people of the Maldives deserve a leader who governs with the foresight and responsibility that the President’s office demands, prioritizing the well-being and aspirations of all citizens over the interests of radical elements and foreign powers, rather than acting like a Mayor.
