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MDP rally on Thursday. (Photo/MDP)

MDP accuses president of undermining trust in e-governance

MDP has announced plans to file a no-confidence motion against Home Minister Ali Ihsan over the allegations.

17 January 2025

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid on Thursday alleged that President Mohamed Muizzu has eroded public trust in the country’s e-governance systems by enabling the misuse of the Department of National Registration (DNR) database to falsify political party membership forms.

Shahid made these remarks during an MDP rally in Male Thursday evening.

Shahid referred to the president’s recent visit to Estonia, a country recognised for its advanced e-governance systems. During the visit, President Muizzu had expressed a commitment to improving governance in the Maldives through digital transformation inspired by Estonia’s model.

However, Shahid argued that the alleged misuse of the DNR database contradicts the principles of transparency and trust central to e-governance.

“The world is building confidence in digital systems, but actions like these undermine that trust,” Shahid said. “If information from state institutions is used for the benefit of the ruling party, public confidence in those institutions will collapse.”

He also highlighted concerns raised over the submission of invalid membership forms to include individuals in the Progressive National Congress (PNC) register without their knowledge.

Shahid cited specific incidents to support the claims:

  • 1-

    Unauthorised membership registrations: There have been complaints from individuals who claim they were added to the PNC register without consent. This includes MDP MP Hussain Ziyad, whose alleged registration was later rejected by the Elections Commission.

  • 2-

    Invalid forms submitted with official signatures: The signature of Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ahmed Aaly was reportedly included in some invalid forms. Ahmed Aaly has denied involvement.

  • 3-

    Activity inside the home ministry office: Photos have surfaced showing individuals filling out membership forms for the PNC within the Home Ministry office. Home Minister Ali Ihsan is allegedly present in the images.

The MDP has announced plans to file a no-confidence motion against Home Minister Ali Ihsan over the allegations. Shahid stated that the issue represents more than isolated incidents, pointing to a larger challenge to the integrity of the e-governance system.

The Elections Commission has temporarily halted the admission of new members to political parties while these allegations are being addressed.

The government has yet to respond to the allegations.

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