The internal strife between the two factions of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has intensified to an alarming extent, resulting in an unprecedented paradigm shift in the Maldivian political arena.
It was observed that the current parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed led faction of MDP has sided with the opposition alliance (PPM and PNC) over voting matters.
Despite a parliamentary whip-line announced by the majority party; which has 65 of its members in the legislative, has observed some of its members voting in favor of the opposition's policies.
On Wednesday's parliamentary sitting, the opposition won in its attempt to get the issue concerning low quality development of the tertiary hospital in Laamu atoll, to get accepted into the chamber floor.
Members aligned with the parliament Speaker argued in favor of the motion to accept the issue proposed by Maavashu MP Mohamed Saeed, who is a member of PNC.
Though members aligned with Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih contested against accepting the bill, their efforts were met with defeat after members of Nasheed' faction voted in favor of the opposition.
A total of 16 lawmakers, all sided with President Solih voted against approving the Maavashu MP's preposition; in line with the ruling party's supposed whip.
However, the opposition acquired 18 votes in favor of the bill with the assistance of lawmakers aligned with Nasheed.
The ruling party is currently going through one of the most unpleasant periods in its political lifetime so far. This also marks the first time, members in the once seemingly unified party, have split in half over issues related to party authority, leadership, and collective vision.
Though uncertain, it appears that the members split into two factions after parliament Speaker became sullen over President Solih publicly opposing Nasheed's efforts to shift the country's governance to a parliamentary system.
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