Former President Mohamed Nasheed, on Tuesday, criticised independent candidates stating that there was not much they could do if elected for parliament.
Speaking in Maafaru, Noonu Atoll, at the campaign rally of Ahmed Haaroon contesting for Manadhoo constituency, Nasheed stated that every amendment passed by the parliament requires a majority, which independent candidates cannot offer. However, Nasheed noted that independent candidates had the power to advocate for what they believe in.
"How would they do anything? There are 87 members [in parliament]. Majority is required for any decision. One person, without the backing of any party, without majority, cannot do anything".
Nasheed drew examples from the current parliament, stating that most independent candidates ultimately signed over to whichever party offered the highest price.
Describing this as a horrifying act witnessed by the people, Nasheed declared that Maldivians want a loyal, capable, and productive parliament.
Nasheed also praised the Agenda 19, created by MDP as an outline for the parliamentary elections, and stated that the policies included within it will allow public enrichment in various sectors.
He particularly reiterated harsh criticism towards independent candidates during his speech at the campaign rally.
"[Their] posters contain a hint of yellow (the official colour of MDP). Slogans contain parts of our phrases. [They] speak about Agenda 19 at podiums. [Their] pictures are with me and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih", Nasheed taunted, referring to independent candidates.
Recalling that there was a time when certain candidates were angered upon seeing him and President Solih, Nasheed noted that it was a victory for MDP to see them develop a liking to the colour yellow.
"They have accepted our ideology to the point where their wives are adorned with temple flowers", the MDP leader said about independent candidates.
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