Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed has said opposition parties have a responsibility to review and criticize the government’s foreign policy.

Nasheed made the remarks after the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned senior state officials against making statements that could harm the country’s international relations.

Speaking to Indian media during the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue in New Delhi last week, Nasheed commented on the Maldives’ current foreign relations. The Foreign Ministry later responded, saying his comments could negatively affect the country.

In a post on X, Nasheed said the Maldives belongs to all citizens and not only to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s government. He also claimed the administration’s public support was below 30 percent.

Nasheed said it is the duty of opposition parties to assess and criticize government foreign policy decisions. He also called on the government to act responsibly when using foreign loans and financial assistance.

The Foreign Ministry stated that the current administration’s foreign policy follows a “Maldives First” approach and warned that statements undermining relations with other countries could threaten national interests.