Referendum bill limits people’s role in decisions, MDP says
The statement also noted that when councils elected for five years had their term reduced by one year, no public consultation was held.
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The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has accused Parliament of passing the Referendum Bill to advance government interests and reduce public influence, including changes to the presidential term.
The bill, introduced last July by Inguraidhoo MP and PNC Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Falaah on behalf of the government, was passed on Monday with 64 members present. Twelve members voted against it.
In a statement, the MDP said it is important in a democratic and republican state like the Maldives to seek the views of the people on matters of national importance. However, the party said it did not participate in the vote due to concerns about the bill.
According to the MDP:
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The Constitution already allows both the President and Parliament to hold a referendum on key national issues.
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The new law places consultation under government control, limiting public power.
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The process enables an extension of the presidential term.
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The timelines in the bill are insufficient for awareness and campaigning.
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The lack of detailed regulations gives the Elections Commission broad powers to alter the process.
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As the Commission’s chair is appointed by the President, this could allow undue influence.
The statement also noted that when councils elected for five years had their term reduced by one year, no public consultation was held.
“It is clear that the purpose of this bill is not to seek the people’s views, but to implement government objectives, thereby restricting public participation in national decisions,” the MDP said.
President Mohamed Muizzu has previously outlined plans to consult the people, including abolishing the second round of the presidential election and moving to a single-round preferential voting system.
The bill passed on Monday allows the President to call a referendum on issues affecting a particular area, or for Parliament to call a public opinion vote by majority resolution.
Key provisions include:
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A referendum must be announced at least 21 days before voting.
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Votes must take place within 45 to 90 days of submission to the Elections Commission, though this period may be shortened.
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A referendum result is valid if more than 50 per cent of valid votes support it.
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The Elections Commission must allocate funds within 10 days of a budget request.
