An NGO is planning to hold a referendum to see whether the people of Maldives wants to remain as a member of Commonwealth.
Officials from the NGO said that even though Maldivian kings paid tribute to the British, Maldives was never a colony of the British Empire. Also that Maldivians never allowed British to govern the country even though they influenced external matters of the country.
“The most popular sport of British colonies is cricket. Even though the government of Maldives tries hard to promote cricket, it does not get that much support from the public. If anyone could do it, former President Maumoon could have done it. Maldivians despise cricket. Maybe that is because cricket remind Maldivians of British colonialism in the countries” said the official.
The official further said that we should weigh the cost and benefits of being a member of Commonwealth and leave it to the people of Maldives to make a decision.
“This is not something that can decided by a couple of politicians. This decision should be taken based on the will of the people. The best option at hand is to hold a referendum” said the official.
Referendum to be held to see whether Maldivians want to remain in the Commonwealth
