Ricoh says no support for DRP

21 December 2007
Report: Ayya

Ricoh Ibrahim Manik, Leader of Maldives Social Democratic Party (MSDP) has stated that even though he attended the recently held gathering of the Dhivehi Rahyithunge Party (DRP), he does not support the policies of the government. He made the statement to Miadhu when questioned about the party’s representation at the recent gathering of the DRP prompting talks in town on a possible coalition with DRP. DRP’s gathering was held with intention of gaining support to disband the Alliance of the Opposition Parties.

Ricoh Ibrahim Manik said that his participation of DRP gathering does not mean MSDP or himself is in line with DRP’s or the government policies. He further stated that he attended the DRP gathering to obtain first views of DRP’s thinking on a transitional arrangement.

MSDP leader said that the party does not support the concept of a transitional government. Such a government could lead to disastrous consequences said Ibrahim Manik MSDP leader.

“People with the intention of removing President Maumoon from power may support transitional government, our intention is not remove anybody, our aim is to make the transition in the most beneficial manner, our decision not to support a transitional arrangement does not mean we are supporting DRP” said Ricoh Ibrahim Manik.

Ricoh further said that President Maumoon’s term in office is due to expire soon.

“We will wait to see the changes the government implements, we will not support a transitional arrangement whether the government is big or small” said Ricoh Ibrahim Moosa.

Deputy leader of the DRP Ahmed Thasmeen Ali said DRP is very concerned with the fact some people are talking about transitional arrangements while such an arrangement has never been implemented in the history of Maldives.

Legal Reform Minister Mohamed Nasheed speaking at the gathering said he is very concerned that transitional arrangement may be the cause for unrests as never seen in Maldives.

The main objective of the Alliance of Opposition Parties is to bring out one candidate to compete in the presidential elections of 2008 if President Gayoom decides to go ahead and compete for the presidency says the Chairperson of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) in an exclusive interview given to Miadhu earlier.