Speaker urges MPs to maintain formal dress code in parliament

Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla on Monday reminded members to observe the long-standing dress code requiring formal attire, including ties, during sittings.

The reminder came after some MPs attended the extraordinary sitting without ties. The Speaker said members should maintain the dignity of the institution by adhering to established practices.

“Today, some honourable members are not wearing ties. I would like to tell you not to do so. It is the duty of all members to maintain the dignity of our Parliament,” Abdul Raheem said.

He noted that while the rules of the Parliament do not specify a dress code for MPs, it has been customary for members to dress formally when appearing in Parliament and committee meetings. If members continue to disregard the dress code, he said, the presidency may have to intervene.

Abdul Raheem added that the matter would be referred to the General Committee of Parliament to formalise the rules on attire for parliamentary sessions.

Some members, however, expressed concern, saying that wearing ties every day may not be practical.