In a rare moment of political convergence, former Maldivian Presidents Mohamed Nasheed, Abdulla Yameen, and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih have publicly acknowledged that their respective administrations were not without flaws. The three leaders conceded that their terms in office were not perfect, marking a significant admission in the country’s political history.

Speaking at a joint event, the former heads of state clarified that their current alliance is not an attempt to validate their past records as flawless. Instead, they emphasized that their primary focus is addressing the current challenges facing the nation, particularly regarding democratic freedoms.

Former President Abdulla Yameen remarked that the Maldives appears to be regressing by two decades. He urged the public and the media to look beyond political motives and unite for the protection of journalists’ rights. Yameen assured that their collective presence aims to ensure a safe environment where the press can operate without fear of intimidation.

Echoing these sentiments, former President Mohamed Nasheed expressed disappointment that, nearly twenty years after the ratification of the ‘Green Constitution,’ leaders are once again forced to advocate for media independence. Nasheed described the current state of the country as a major setback for journalism.

The unprecedented alliance of these three leaders—representing distinct political ideologies—marks a historic turn in Maldivian politics. The trio has pledged to remain steadfast in their commitment to securing and defending the rights of the media.