Parliament will operate according to President's revolutionary changes: Abdul Raheem

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu came on to power to bring about revolutionary changes to the country, and the parliament will also follow his footsteps to implement those policies and decide upon what is best for the people, said MP Abdul Raheem Abdulla, the newly elected Speaker of the 20th Parliament of Maldives.

Speaking at the parliament today for the first time since being elected as Speaker, Abdul Raheem said that the 20th parliament, which was sworn in today, has been brought together at an important time for the country, which is just shortly after President Dr Muizzu took over the reigns to bring positive revolutionary changes to the country under his new policies.

As such, this parliament will become one that will have to operate at the same pace as the President, and one that will support his efforts, said Abdul Raheem.

He detailed that amongst the important tasks that lie ahead for the parliament include expanding the economy, develop new skills and businesses, explore ways to improve financial prosperity, introduce new structural development initiatives and mend the weakening social fabric of the country.

Additionally, elimination of entry possibilities for undocumented migrants into the country, upholding the law, ensuring a free judiciary, and upholding the dignity of the parliament are also areas of focus, Abdul Raheem said.

He said that "these are issues that need to be discussed and debated in the parliament, and decided upon in collaboration with the government."

Abdul Raheem also touched on the need to introduce new laws, amend existing laws and repeal those that are no longer fit for this day and age. He went on to add that it is essential to ensure that the new regulations are empowered by the law, and that any regulations which are beyond the scope of the law should also be revoked.

"We are taking upon our shoulders a very big task. I have no doubt that this parliament will continue without fatigue, to discuss and debate these issues and finalise on the best outcomes," he added.

In his speech, he also highlighted that the parliament is one of the three estates of the government and that this parliament will be one that works closely with the public. He also said that it will hold space for diverse ideas, views and differences in opinions, and that it should be executed to a level which is wholeheartedly accepted by the people.

"It should be carried out such that the dignity of the parliament is upheld, adhering to the parliament's rules and code of conduct in a way that people are proud of the parliament's work. In a way that the respect and status [of the parliament and its work] is elevated in people's hearts," he said.