In a recent press conference at People’s National Front (PNF) office, former President Abdulla Yameen accused current President Muizzu of mishandling the issue of banning Israeli passports. Yameen argued that President Muizzu, despite having the authority to ban Israeli passports independently, has chosen to delegate the matter to the People’s Majlis, suggesting a lack of genuine intent.
Yameen expressed concerns over the incumbent administration’s intentions, emphasizing that decisive action should be taken on this matter. Highlighting the recent speech by the Maldivian Islamic Minister at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which called for an end to Israel’s actions against Palestinians, Yameen questioned why the administration is hesitating to ban Israeli passports.
The former president underscored the precedent set by previous administrations, where such decisions were made directly by the president without forwarding them to the People’s Majlis. Yameen argued that no constitutional or legal requirement mandates involving the Majlis in this decision, and that the president should take responsibility for such significant issues.
Accusing the administration of delaying tactics, Yameen noted that it has been 45 days since the matter was sent to the People’s Majlis committee without resolution. He further alleged that the government has no genuine intention to ban Israeli passports, pointing to statements made by Attorney General Ahmed Usham. Usham indicated that banning Israelis from entering the Maldives would lead to significant complications and that the government plans to propose amendments to the bill.
The bill to ban Israeli passports was initially accepted by the People’s Majlis and forwarded to the 241 Committee in early June. It was submitted by Meekail Naseem, MP for South Galolhu constituency from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), aiming to amend the Immigration Act to prohibit the entry of tourists holding Israeli passports.
