Fisheries and Agriculture Minister Dr. Mohamed Shainee has stated that key figures were missing from sight after explosion aboard the Presidential speedboat on 28th September.
Speaking about the incident, Dr. Shainee said that no one had previously predicted that such an attack will be given to the President and that this was the first assassination attempt. He said that as such, the incident was a grave issue.
“I believe that the security measures were not in place that day. Ambulance and security features have to be alert in anticipation of an event. That day those aspects were not there,” Dr. Shainee said.
Dr. Shainee said that private contracted employees could not be in charge of the Presidential speedboats and other vehicles. He said that the full security measures should be implemented for the President’s security and that the Presidential fleet has to be under MNDF protected security. He added that he was not fully aware of the security protocols.
“When the explosion occurred, we were onboard the other launch for a very long time. The explosion occurred infront of MNDF, Police. In a critical situation, the number of personnel from the two agencies were not around. I instructed to cordon off the area, it was not done, the area was not secured. There were lapses. Personnel aboard the speedboat did act immediately, in their limited capacities. They tried to protect the President, attend to First Lady,” Dr. Shainee said.
He also stated a wait of 10 to 12 minutes to go to the hospital was also unacceptable.
“So many issues need to be addressed. They will be addressed. A commission has been working on the issue,” he said.
Dr. Shainee added that in spite of the incident, the President had not wavered and was currently engaged in drawing up the budget for next year and managing the nation.
“The First Lady still remained hospitalized. We have no assurance that she can walk after one and half months. We have to ensure that such accidents do not occur,” he said.
“The explosive device was placed under the seat the President normally uses. The strength of the explosion, the location all points to a deliberate attempt,” he added.
Dr. Shainee said that given the current social and political situation of the country, it was difficult to pinpoint the exact reasons behind the attack. He added that he did not wish to believe that the attack was an inside job, but if the investigation reveals so, then appropriate action will be taken.
“President Yameen has won the hearts of the public, he is a cool person. He is friendly with everyone, jovial and is a good friend,” he said.
Dr. Shainee said that he was thankful that the President escaped the incident with no injuries. He said that both First Lady and Nasir were not as lucky and added that this was deeply saddening. He also said that then entire cabinet was deeply concerned over the attack but was as committed to running the nation.
“I do not believe that this is something anyone should do. I don’t want to point fingers at anyone, without any proof. Until we get proof, the suspicion will exist. We are working to find the culprits,” Dr. Shainee said.
Dr. Shainee added that the attack was in planning for a very long time, therefore, the investigation will take a long time as well. Nevertheless, he said that the investigation was successfully going on.
Key figures missing from sight after explosion: Dr. Shainee
