MDP warns election merger could weaken democratic process

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Tuesday said the proposal to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on the same date is intended to concentrate power in the government.

The remarks were made by Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir at a press conference held by the MDP in opposition to the referendum scheduled for 4 April on merging the two elections.

Mauroof, who is spokesperson for the party’s task force formed to raise public awareness on the referendum, said the move to combine the elections would undermine democratic processes in the Maldives. He described the proposal as part of a broader effort by President Mohamed Muizzu to consolidate authority.

He said the government’s plan to merge the elections contains further objectives that have not been disclosed. Mauroof added that the MDP has taken steps to oppose the proposal, including forming a special committee to coordinate its response.

“At this stage, the MDP has taken all necessary steps to protect the independence of the country. We will not allow this opportunity to be given to President Muizzu,” he said.

At the press conference, the MDP also accused the government of attempting to extend its time in office by holding the elections together. Mauroof said that if the referendum is approved, voters would lose the opportunity to vote separately in a presidential election.

He said the party would carry out activities to oppose the referendum, including public campaigns and a demonstration scheduled for the 21st of next month.

“I call on the people of the Maldives, reform advocates and MDP supporters to vote against this referendum and to take part in these activities,” he said.