Maldives is undergoing major changes. A new president is set to take oath in November. Dunya Maumoon, former foreign minister of Maldives and the daughter of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the nation’s former president, was in New Delhi over the weekend. During her short visit, she met External Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. She is the first high profile political personality to have visited India after the surprise win of joint opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the Maldives presidential elections. Excerpts from an exclusive interview:

What brings you to India?

I visited often as a foreign minister and as a close friend of India. My father Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the former president of Maldives, was the one who was the architect of modern democracy in the Maldives. He was instrumental in building a warm friendship with India. I came here representing my father in informal meetings. I had a number of meetings and in particular was pleased to be able to call on External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. I have worked with her on many issues. I believe, with the new government coming in the Maldives, it is time to look to rebuild the trust that was there between our countries. My hope is that the president-elect does that when he takes office. I hope issues between us get resolved. 

What are the developments in your country?

The whole world has been watching the events in my country very carefully. While the leadership of Abdulla Yameen brought some development, a lot of people lived in fear and in an environment of political persecution. Using the court, he was able to lock up and convict many innocent people, including my father, for whom, given his age and health, it was a difficult time. My mother, my brother, my brother-in-law were imprisoned. And many other political figures too. It was sad to see this kind of situation in our country. We were relieved that the Maldivian people’s decision was not to condone such kind of behaviour and hold their leaders accountable. I believe that this decision and the will of the people needs to be fully implemented. Unfortunately, Yameen is a sore and very bad loser. He is refusing to accept it. He has gone to the court. I am confident that justice will be done.

What is your take on the #MeToo movement? What work have you done on the issue?

It’s a very important, global movement. I am glad to see victims finding the courage to speak up against the discrimination. It is important we join this movement. In my own country, I have worked on anti-domestic violence legislations. A lot more work is needed. I hope Maldives will be a part of this global movement. I wish the movement every success.