Vilufushi Constituency MP Riyaz Rasheed says that he had never issued any threats on Sri Lanka, but rather expressed concern over the support Sri Lankan Government extended to the opposition figures.
Recently Sri Lankan Government had said that they had no issues with the work carried out by the Opposition led by former President Mohamed Nasheed.
Speaking in Sangu TV's "Habarah fahu" program, Riyaz said much of his statements had been misrepresented in the media, adding that he had only sought out to express his concerns over what was happening. He said Sri Lanka and Maldives had long standing ties, assisting and aiding the other nation in times of crisis.
Riyaz said the calls to boycott tourism will damage Sri Lanka as well, as there were many Sri Lankan businesses invested in the tourism sector of the Maldives. He also said Sri Lanka operated many flights between the route and therefore the calls will also impact Sri Lanka.
Rumors have spread that Nasheed is currently in Sri Lanka to drum up support for the Opposition's plan to overthrow the Government. Criminal Court had issued an arrest warrant on the former President. A statement released by Police said that firstly Nasheed had in effect fled from his 13-year jail term, after he secured a release for medical treatment. Secondly, Police said Nasheed was a person of interest in the case on the MVR 1.8 million misappropriated from the state, as noted in 2011 audit report. Police last night had also searched his residence G. Canaryge to obtain evidence on coup plotting.
