Reversing its position on the composition of participants in talks on political reforms, the Maldives government has decided to allow political prisoners to take part.
Attributing this announcement to Mohamed Shainee, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, a release issued by the President’s office also quoted the Minister as saying that the administration would offer “full cooperation” and was willing to provide “every possible leniency” to work towards “peace and harmony, and for the good and well being” of Maldivians.
At the same time, Ibrahim Hussain Shihab, spokesperson of the President’s office, clarified that the political prisoners would not be released and the offer was limited to participation in the discussions. The change in the government’s position took place in the backdrop of the UN official Tamrat Samuel’s visit, aimed at helping the government recommence the talks. The last round of the talks, held on March 3, was boycotted by the principal Opposition party, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and its ally, Adhaalath Party.
Besides, the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group, which called for an “inclusive dialogue” at its meeting in February, is expected to review the situation shortly.
However, the MDP was not satisfied with the government’s invitation and said it would not take part in any discussion. Imtiaz Fahmy, the party’s spokesperson, told The Hindu that “there is no change in our basic position — free all political prisoners, kept either in jails or under house arrest.” But, he conceded that the government had changed its “tone”.
