MDP to back expelled PNC MPs in by-elections
The resolution described the amendment as infringing on the people's will and undermining the constitutional framework.
Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) National Assembly on Tuesday resolved to support and campaign for ruling Progressive National Congress (PNC) MPs who may lose their parliamentary seats due to defection or expulsion from their party under a recent constitutional amendment.
The decision was made during a meeting of the MDP National Assembly at the carnival area in Male, ahead of the party's rally. The resolution, proposed by MDP Legal Director and Kolamaafushi president Mahfooz Saeed, was unanimously approved by all 89 members present.
Under the recently passed constitutional amendment, a Member of Parliament (MP) will lose their seat if they leave their party or join another party.
Mahfooz, in his resolution, argued that the amendment conflicts with several constitutional provisions:
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Article 4 of the constitution states that all powers of the state originate from and remain vested in the people. The amendment undermines this principle by limiting the people's power.
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Article 75 mandates MPs to act in the national interest, and the amendment compromises this by potentially forcing MPs to act solely based on party directives.
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Article 90 protects MPs from investigations into their statements or votes in parliament, which the amendment effectively violates.
The resolution described the amendment as infringing on the people's will and undermining the constitutional framework.
The MDP resolution committed the party to support expelled MPs during by-elections, stating: "If an MP is expelled from their party for statements, votes, or actions taken in the public interest, and they choose to contest the by-election, the MDP will actively campaign for their re-election to represent their constituency."
Additionally, the resolution outlined steps to mobilise broader opposition to the amendment:
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Collaboration: The MDP will reach out to other political parties, civil society organisations, and professionals to build a unified movement against the amendment.
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Nationwide activities: Political activities and protests will be organised across the country to raise awareness and oppose the amendment.
In a related development, the MDP also prepared and approved a petition against the amendment, reiterating its position that the changes undermine constitutional principles and democratic processes.
