Solih calls proposed referendum a ‘constitutional coup’
Solih said the proposed amendment was being advanced without sufficient public debate or consultation.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has described the upcoming referendum on constitutional amendments as a “constitutional coup”.
The referendum, scheduled to be held alongside the local council elections, seeks public approval to shorten the term of the current 20th Parliament and to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on the same day.
Speaking at a gathering organised by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Monday night, Solih said the proposed amendment was being advanced without sufficient public debate or consultation. He urged voters to reject the proposal.
“This is a major constitutional coup. If it were otherwise, there would be no need to pursue this referendum alongside the council elections,” Solih said.
He argued that holding both elections on the same day would reduce the ability of citizens to hold the government accountable and alleged that the move is intended to consolidate executive authority.
Solih criticised Parliament for passing the amendment without what he described as adequate transparency. He also questioned the justification offered by the government that merging elections would reduce costs.
“Merging these two elections under the claim of cost reduction is not acceptable. The consequences for the governance system must be considered,” he said.
Solih pointed to a pattern since 2013 in which the party in power has secured a majority in parliamentary elections held shortly after presidential elections. He said that combining both elections could further strengthen the position of an incumbent administration.
“If state resources are used during a combined election, the president could gain control of Parliament. That would remove opportunities for accountability,” he said.
Solih also noted that under the current Constitution, no sitting president has secured a second term, suggesting that political outcomes remain uncertain.
He concluded by calling on President Mohamed Muizzu to reconsider and withdraw the proposed amendment.
