Some may resist me running MDP, Fayyaz says

Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) chairman Fayyaz Ismail on Wednesday expressed concern over a possible lack of support for his leadership within the party, particularly as he moves forward with proposed amendments to the party’s constitution.

These concerns were raised during the MDP national assembly meeting, where members discussed constitutional changes.

Several members advocated for holding a party congress to bring about amendments rather than making the changes through the national assembly.

According to the party’s charter, constitutional amendments should ideally be made through a congress.

However, the national assembly is empowered to make amendments in special cases, but some members argued that it would be best to follow the congress route for such reforms.

In response, Fayyaz clarified that the party’s legal advisers had found no constitutional barriers to presenting the amendments to the national assembly. He also emphasised that these changes would only be temporary until the next congress, which he indicated would likely be held early or mid-next year. 

“We are currently in the opposition and need to find ways to strengthen the party,” Fayyaz said. 

“We cannot hold a congress immediately, but we plan to do so next year, either early or mid-year. These amendments are necessary to ensure the party can function effectively until then.”

Fayyaz expressed concern that some party members might be intentionally delaying these amendments to undermine his leadership. 

“Perhaps some people do not want this party to run smoothly under my leadership,” he said, suggesting that the delays were not merely procedural but politically motivated.

Despite these challenges, Fayyaz affirmed his commitment to moving the party forward, stating that the proposed reforms were essential for its effective operation. He noted that the changes had the support of grassroots members and activists from across the country.

“The proposed resolutions are not for the benefit of any individual,” Fayyaz stressed. 

“Those who understand the true purpose of these reforms will recognise that they are in the best interests of the party.”

However, another issue surfaced during the meeting: a lack of cooperation from some members of the national assembly. Fayyaz noted that despite the assembly's critical role in party governance, many members failed to attend important meetings. 

The assembly, which consists of 121 members, barely reached the required quorum of 30 members, with only 42 members present at the meeting. Fayyaz lamented the low turnout, stressing the importance of member participation in these crucial discussions.

“The national assembly members should take their responsibility seriously,” he said.

“We notify members a week in advance of meetings, but still, we struggle to meet the quorum. This is not how we can run the party effectively.”

Fayyaz revealed that the proposed amendments had been submitted to the national assembly nearly three months ago, and he was unwilling to delay them any further.

“We have given ample time for discussion. These reforms are necessary, and we cannot afford to wait any longer,” he added.