Won’t let govt seize people’s power, Shahid says
Shahid emphasised that the government cannot and should not take away the people’s power.
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Tuesday strongly opposed the government's recent amendments to the Constitution, declaring that they will not allow the ruling administration to strip power from the people.
MDP President Abdulla Shahid expressed deep concern over the government's actions, particularly its decision to amend the Constitution to allow Parliament members to lose their seats if they change parties. This move, coupled with a proposed reduction in the Supreme Court bench, has sparked criticism and accusations of an attempt to manipulate the judiciary.
On Monday, Parliament introduced a bill to reduce the Supreme Court from five justices to three. The bill was accepted and referred to the relevant committee for further discussion. Shahid condemned this decision, stating that the government’s attempt to influence the Supreme Court was invalid from the start.
Shahid emphasised that the government cannot and should not take away the people’s power.
He reaffirmed MDP’s commitment to restoring democratic governance, saying, "If power is taken away from the people, we will not stand idly by. The MDP will rise and ensure that power is returned to the rightful hands of the people."
He further stated:
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The Constitution is designed to establish checks and balances between different branches of government to prevent authoritarian rule.
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The government’s actions will not succeed and will only lead to further decline in governance.
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The current administration lacks legitimacy.
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The debate on the Courts Act Amendment Bill in Parliament clearly showed that the government's true intention is to remove judges who do not align with their agenda.
Shahid urged the people to stand up against these changes, warning that if unchecked, such moves could lead to further erosion of democratic values. He reiterated that MDP will continue to fight against any unconstitutional actions that threaten the independence of state institutions.
