Governing coalition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on late Monday passed former President Mohamed Nasheed and Galolhu North MP Eva Abdulla's names as candidates for Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament respectively in unanimous vote.
The vote was taken in a meeting held in Dharubaaruge convention centre by MPs elected for the upcoming 19th seating of the Parliament.
While Hithadhoo North MP Mohamed Aslam and Vilufushi MP Hassan Afeef were heavily contesting for candidacy for Speaker of Parliament, Nasheed's name was cast for vote although he did not campaign for the post. Aslam and Afeef subsequently withdrew their names and supported the motion to nominate Nasheed.
Although, Nasheed initially refused his name for candidacy, he acquiesced after making a private phone call, stating, "We are a group that wants to provide for the citizens. And so, I accept your proposal".
Subsequently, MP Eva Abdulla's name was submitted and then passed for candidacy for Deputy Speaker of Parliament. There were no other candidates contesting for the role.
Nasheed stated, "Parliament will be conducted according to the regulations and laws. Furthermore, it will be conducted in a way where many parties will be represented. No violation of Islam will be permitted."
The new MPs for the 19th sitting of the Parliament will be sworn in on Tuesday, after which the parliament will vote to elect the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
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