MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has said today that yesterday's rushed constitutional amendments prove the government's autocratic ways and that they have now demonstrated that they may change the constitution at their whim.
Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has said today that yesterday's rushed constitutional amendments prove the government's autocratic ways and that they have now demonstrated that they may change the constitution at their whim.
An amendment was proposed yesterday stipulating that a member of parliament will lose their seat through changing parties, leaving or being dismissed from a party, or if an independent MP joins a party. The amendment was rushed through yesterday, with the debate, vote, committee stage all being completed within the day, ending with the parliament voting to pass it.
In a press conference held by MDP today to voice concerns about this, Fayyaz said that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu showed yesterday that he will change the constitution as he wishes, when he wishes, describing this as a sign of dictatorial ruling.
He assured that MDP will do all in its power to prevent the country sliding into autocratic rule.
Fayyaz said that in principle, anti-defection safeguards are not a bad thing. He added that however, there has to be certain guidelines set if a member is to lose their seat through being dismissed from a party, and that it is the people who must hold this decision. Fayyaz said that the amendment that has been brought effectively leaves members at the mercy of their parties, taking away their independence and autonomy.
"We will not let this remain this way under an administration run by us. I am stating this clearly. There must be instances where a seat is lost when going against party whips. Today, the party is also a part of the State. Things that concern all citizens is being decided within parties. This right has to be given," he said.
"But members should lose their seats under set circumstances, with an option to appeal provided. There must be the chance to go to the citizens for a recall vote. That is the best way. If a member is dismissed from the party, then the people have to say, yes, it is time to dismiss them."
Fayyaz maintains that each time MDP has held the presidency, the administration ran within the boundaries of the Constitution and through prioritizing citizens' rights. He alleged that ruling People's National Congress (PNC) has made it part of their trademark to abuse the laws to control the people and take away rights.
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