Three MDP MPs stop wearing ties in protest against speaker’s actions

Three opposition MPs from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have stopped wearing ties during parliamentary sittings as a form of protest against what they claim are violations of parliamentary procedure by the Speaker.

Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Ziyad (Fitte), Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, and Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) attended today's sitting without ties, a noticeable break from standard parliamentary dress code.

The Speaker of Parliament took note of their attire during the session, expressing concern and advising the members to maintain the formal dress code. He emphasized that parliamentary sittings are official proceedings, and members are expected to dress accordingly, which traditionally includes wearing a tie.

"Some members are not wearing ties today. I would like to advise against this. It is the duty of all members to uphold the dignity of our Parliament," the Speaker said.

When asked about the reason behind the protest, MP Hussain Ziyad told Mihaaru News that the decision was made in response to the Speaker’s failure to follow Rule 83 of the Parliament’s Standing Orders.

"The Speaker is violating Rule 83, which governs the questioning of ministers. So, as a form of protest, we are choosing not to wear ties in Parliament," said MP Ziyad.

Rule 83 of the Parliament’s Standing Orders outlines procedures for members to question ministers, a key aspect of legislative oversight.

MP Ziyad also pointed out that while there is a formal dress code requiring ties for committee meetings, the same rule does not explicitly apply to general parliamentary sittings. He added that in practice, even committee meetings often see members in informal attire.