Opening of Theemuge Public is a deliberate attempt by the MDP to influence the parliamentary elections – DRP

Sunday, April 19th, 2009

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Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party had said that the opening of the former president’s palace to the public was a deliberate attempt by the MDP to influence the outcome of the parliamentary elections.

The party commented on the opening in a press release issued regarding the matter. The press release also said that as Theemuge was built as the official residence of the President, and conducting activities that are not dignified for the palace and that contravenes the original purpose of the building is a sign that the MDP government does not have any respect for the rights of the future presidents of the Maldives. The press release also said that since President must be protected as per the constitution, presidential palace should be a place where president can do his job in a secure environment. Especially in case of a terrorist attack, such protection could be vital, the press release continued.

DRP also said that the opening of Theemuge for public was a new campaign strategy of the government. However, DRP also said that since the public is aware of it and since they understands the protection and immunities that shall be granted to a president, public would seriously think about MDP’s such campaign strategies. They also questioned why Muleeaage, current president’s palace was not opened for public. The party also said that the expensively renovated Muleeage and the areas which have limited access is also something the public would like to see, and that if the current government is a transparent government Muleeaage must also be opened for public.

The press release also said that the Theemuge was reconstructed after demolishing the old building because of the destruction caused because of 3 November 1988 terrorist act. It also said that the new building was constructed as to provide a safe and secure place where the President can work, even in case of a terrorist attacks, under consultation from MNDF.

Military bases and other strategic buildings of any state will have limited access, and that is because if unlimited access was given to such areas, that could compromise country’s national security. The press release said that given that it is understood that some of those strategic buildings should be out of bound for the public.

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