As the Presidential Inauguration for President Elect Dr Mohamed Muizzu, scheduled for November 17, nears, invitations have been sent out to leaders of all neighbouring countries, as well as those of other countries with which Maldives has close ties.
In light of the perception that Muizzu encouraged through his party coalition's "India Out" campaign activities, the local media has widely reported that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also been invited to the inauguration.
Speaking on behalf of the President Elect's Office, Transitional Spokesperson Mohamed Firuzul confirmed that all countries in the region have been invited, emphasizing that the invitation had been issued to the country, and not to an individual.
"We have always been saying that the list of neighbouring nations, and nations the Maldives shares close ties with is very long. We have sent invitations to all these countries, and that includes India," he confirmed.
"This is an invitation we are extending to the country. Not to any specific individual from a country. We send the invitation to the countries itself because of instances where there are more than one person leading a country, for example a President and a Prime Minister." he explained.
One of the reasons that India's leaders being invited to the inauguration has gained traction in local media and social media is that Muizzu has pledged to work on diplomatic terms with the Indian government to remove Indian troops stationed in the Maldives, assuring he will do this during the first week of his presidency.
Muizzu maintains that he will not rely on one specific country, but will rather garner close relations with all countries, exploring opportunities of mutual benefit.
The Presidential Inauguration will be held on the evening of November 17, at the Republic Square.