MDP considers re-implementing Anti-Defection Act

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s parliamentary group has revealed intentions to re-implement the Anti-Defection Act, which would result in members changing political parties to lose their parliamentary seats.

Previously, the anti-floor crossing act was established and implemented during the former President Abdulla Yameen's administration. However, after Yameen faced defeat in the 2018 presidential election, the Act was revoked on November 1 with the endorsement of the then-ruling MDP members during the transition period. The revocation of the Act was passed with 37 out of the 54 members who attended voting on the matter. The majority of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), who faced defeat in the presidential election, wished to retain the law.