MDP MPs forced out in violation of law, MP Nazil says
He further stated that the expulsion occurred while the chair was absent, which he claimed was not in accordance with parliamentary procedures.
Opposition MDP members were expelled out of the parliament during the president’s address Thursday, injuring them as well, Hithadhoo North MP Ibrahim Nazil said.
The MDP members had been protesting with posters when President Muizzu entered the chamber to deliver the statement. The protesters attempted to present the statement, but Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla advised them repeatedly to adhere to the rules of procedure.
The speaker announced the names of three MDP members. Following a request for the session to be adjourned, parliament was temporarily suspended. Upon resumption, the members who had been named were not present.
Scenes from the incident were shared on social media after the live broadcast was suspended. According to the videos, parliamentary security personnel were seen removing MDP members from the chamber.
After being expelled, the MDP MPs joined their protestors outside the Medhuziyaaraiy Magu area of Majeediyya School. There, they continued their protest and called for the resignation of President Muizzu.
In an interview with Atoll Times, Nazil explained the situation, stating that the MDP members were expressing their views when the names of the expelled members were announced. He added that the sergeant-at-arms arrived to remove the members while the speaker was absent from the chair.
He further stated that the expulsion occurred while the chair was absent, which he claimed was not in accordance with parliamentary procedures.
