Solih alleges govt plan to restructure Supreme Court bench
Solih criticised the government’s recent constitutional amendment, asserting that it conflicts with constitutional provisions on MPs.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Tuesday claimed that the government led by the Progressive National Congress (PNC) intends to restructure the Supreme Court bench as its next step.
He made the statement during the Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) rally held at the carnival area in Male.
At the rally, Solih criticised the government’s recent constitutional amendment, asserting that it conflicts with constitutional provisions regarding the responsibilities of Members of Parliament (MPs). He noted that the constitution requires MPs to act in the national interest and the welfare of the people while prohibiting the use of office for personal gain.
“With the amendment, MPs are restricted from functioning in the manner prescribed by the constitution,” Solih said. “This creates a contradiction within the constitution itself. The choice now lies between working for the welfare of the people or following party directives.”
He added that he expects the Supreme Court to address this conflict and deliver a decision that upholds the power of the people. However, he warned that the government would seek to alter the Supreme Court bench.
“The next step for this government will be to change the bench of the Supreme Court,” Solih said. “It will not stop until that is achieved. This will reveal the character of the government.”
Solih accused the government of undermining democratic institutions, including independent bodies, parliament, and the judiciary, and claimed interference in financial institutions.
“These actions pave the way for a dictatorship,” he stated.
He further emphasised that the MDP is committed to opposing such actions and restoring the rights of the people.
“The days ahead are challenging, but the MDP will stand against injustice and work to return the rights that this government has taken from the people,” Solih said.
Earlier in the day, the MDP passed a petition demanding the repeal of the constitutional amendment and adopted a resolution to support any PNC MP who loses their seat due to expulsion or defection and contests a by-election. The resolution was passed unanimously at an MDP National Assembly meeting held before the rally.
