MP Azaan expelled from PNC group over SC bill vote absence
PNC leadership had issued a three-line whip instructing members to vote in favor of the amendment in Tuesday's parliamentary sitting.
Hithadhoo Central MP Azaan Marzooq has been expelled from the WhatsApp group of President Mohamed Muizzu, the leadership of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC), and the party's parliamentary group members, following his decision not to participate in the vote on a key bill regarding changes to the Supreme Court bench.
The bill in question seeks to amend the law to set the number of Supreme Court judges at five. The PNC leadership had issued a three-line whip instructing members to vote in favor of the amendment in Tuesday's parliamentary sitting. However, Azaan’s failure to participate in the vote led to action from the party.
Following his removal from the parliamentary group’s WhatsApp chat Tuesday afternoon, multiple PNC members confirmed Azaan’s expulsion from the group. However, it remains unclear whether further disciplinary measures, including potential expulsion from the party, will follow.
In a post on social media platform X, PNC parliamentary group leader Mohamed Falah stated that of the 11 members who did not participate in the vote, nine were on official trips, while two abstained. The reasons for their absence are currently being investigated.
"The leadership of the parliamentary group is investigating why two PNC members did not participate in the vote," Falah said.
President Muizzu, in a message to the parliamentary group, emphasised the importance of party discipline, stating that no member should violate the party's three-line whip.
The judiciary committee approved the bill under its own authority, with Huraa MP Anara Naeem abstaining from the vote, Tuesday evening.
The proposed changes come as the Supreme Court prepares to rule on a constitutional amendment that could lead to MPs losing their seats based on party affiliation.
During a PNC parliamentary group meeting held to discuss the bill, Azaan was present. However, most members ultimately agreed to support the government's position, and the party formally announced its backing of the bill yesterday.
