Mariyam Shiuna, a suspended minister of the Maldives, issued an apology following backlash over a social media post targeting the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which contained a symbol resembling the Ashok Chakra, sparking controversy amid diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives.
In a statement posted on X, Shiuna expressed regret and apologized for any confusion or offence caused by her recent post, clarifying that the resemblance to the Indian flag was unintentional.
“It was brought to my attention that the image used in my response to the Maldivian opposition party MDP bore a resemblance to the Indian flag. I want to make it clear that this was entirely unintentional, and I sincerely regret any misunderstanding it may have caused,” she stated.
Asserting the importance of the relationship between the Maldives and India, Shiuna emphasized the need for greater vigilance in verifying content shared on social media to avoid such oversights in the future.
The controversy emerged amid diplomatic tensions following President Muizzu’s assumption of office, during which he has sought the withdrawal of Indian troops stationed in the Maldives for humanitarian services. President Muizzu’s tenure has also witnessed increased engagement with China, highlighted by his visit to Beijing and meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
With elections looming, President Muizzu has attempted to strike a reconciliatory tone, affirming India as the Maldives’ “closest ally” and appealing to New Delhi for debt relief, as the Maldives owes a substantial sum to India.
Shiuna’s deleted post has added complexity to the situation, placing the People’s National Congress in a challenging position amid ongoing diplomatic manoeuvres.
This incident isn’t the first time Shiuna has drawn attention for her comments regarding India. Earlier remarks concerning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep had elicited strong criticism from former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed, leading to Shiuna and two others being suspended as ministers.