The political landscape in the Maldives is experiencing a significant shift as the opposition warmly welcomes President-elect Mohamed Muizzu’s announcement to recalibrate the country’s relationship with India. This move comes after a period of tension and strained ties under the outgoing administration. However, the opposition is calling for more than just policy changes—they are demanding a formal apology from the President-elect for past actions and misleading statements that they believe have damaged the Maldives-India relationship.

Muizzu’s stance marks a departure from the “India Out” campaign, which was promoted by his predecessor Abdulla Yameen. This campaign had contributed to diplomatic rifts, creating an atmosphere of mistrust between the two nations. By shifting towards a more cooperative approach, Muizzu aims to restore and enhance diplomatic and economic ties with India, which has been a key regional partner for the Maldives in areas such as security, trade, and development.

The opposition’s call for an apology stems from their view that the previous administration’s rhetoric and policies were not only harmful to bilateral relations but also misleading to the Maldivian public. They argue that these actions have tarnished the country’s image on the international stage and have led to unnecessary diplomatic conflicts.

As Muizzu prepares to take office, he faces the challenge of balancing domestic expectations with the need to rebuild trust and cooperation with India. His ability to navigate this complex political landscape will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of Maldives-India relations.