Jumhooree Party Leader Qasim Ibrahim has raised concerns regarding a sudden change in position by the Maldivian Government on the claims by Mauritius over the sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago. This change in policy could have potential negative consequences for the territory of the Maldives and its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 

In the letter addressed to His Excellency Judge Albert J. Hoftman, President of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, Qasim urged the ITLOS to exclude any potential influence arising from this policy change in its deliberation, recommendation, or decision regarding the dispute between Mauritius and Maldives over the delimitation of their maritime boundary.

Qasim pointed out that the Maldives' sudden change in policy violates Article 3 of the Maldivian Constitution, which requires changes to the territory of the Maldives be made pursuant to a law enacted by at least a two-thirds of the People's Majlis (Parliament of the Maldives).

No consent or approval has been granted by the People's Majlis to the President of the Maldives to bring about a change in policy on accepting Mauritius's claim of sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. 

Qasim also requested the ITLOS to delay any deliberation or decision on Case No. 28 to mitigate the potential loss and impact of its decision on the Maldives, which is dependent on its fishing and marine resources. The Republican Party leader urged Judge Hoftman and the members of ITLOS to consider the concerns of the Maldivian citizens and state and ensure that their rights are secured.