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Members injured during parliament scuffle taken to hospital

The decision of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats' parliamentary group not to approve some members of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's cabinet has caused a major uproar in the parliament.

Aishath Shuba Solih
28 January 2024, MVT 17:28
Altercation between MP Shaheem and MP Easa
Aishath Shuba Solih
28 January 2024, MVT 17:28

Kanditheemu MP Abdulla Shaheem who had sustained injuries during a major uproar in the parliament today has been taken to the hospital.

The decision of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats' parliamentary group not to approve some members of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's cabinet, has lead to the ruling party Progressive Party of Maldives and People’s National Congress (PPM/PNC) coalition affiliated parliamentarians to disrupt parliament proceedings and enter the chambers of the Speaker.

Clashes ensued between opposition MDP and members affiliated with the ruling party.

During the clash, the biggest altercation occurred between MP Shaheem and Kendhikulhudhoo MP Ahmed Easa when the former tripped and knocked down MP Easa. MP Shaheem had also sustained injuries on his head when the two parliamentarians fell near the chamber during the scuffle. Minority leader Moosa Siraj had attempted to stop altercation.

However, following that, MP Easa and Shaheem had had another scuffle that resulted in serious injuries near MP Shaheem's ears when MP Easa had kneed him and pulled at his hair. Oher parliamentarians had attempted to cease the struggle.

MP Shaheem has now been taken to the hospital via an ambulance.

MP Shaheem taken to hospital via ambulance

Meanwhile, Mathiveri MP Hassan Zareer also sustained serious injuries on his finger. According to a parliamentarian, MP Zareer was injured during the scuffle between the members. Maradhoo MP Ibrahim Shareef alleged that MP Zareer was attacked by members of MDP.

Currently, members belonging to the ruling party are protesting within the parliament chambers.

While the voting has been halted, pro-government supporters and officials are currently protesting outside the parliament, calling for the approval of cabinet ministers.

MDP, which has a majority in parliament, has decided not to vote to approve Attorney General Ahmed Usham, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr. Ali Haidar, Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, and Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed.

Ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and People's National Congress (PNC) coalition have said that denying parliamentary approval to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's cabinet will be tantamount to obstructing the services the government gives to citizens.

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