Adhaalath Party backs proposal to hold elections together
The party said the decision was made in the interest of the country and the public but did not provide further details.
The Adhaalath Party has decided to support the government’s proposal to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on the same day.
In a post on X on Tuesday night, the party said the decision was taken by a majority of its consultative council.
The party said the decision was made in the interest of the country and the public but did not provide further details. The party was not available for additional comment.
Parliament passed an amendment last month to shorten the term of the current parliament and allow presidential and parliamentary elections to be held together.
Under the Constitution, the amendment can only take effect if approved by voters in a referendum.
The referendum is scheduled to be held on 4 April alongside the local council elections.
The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) has called for a “yes” vote in the referendum. The proposal is also supported by the Jumhooree Party (JP) and the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA).
The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the People’s National Front (PNF), led by former President Abdulla Yameen, have called for a “no” vote.
The government has said the proposal is intended to reduce costs by holding both elections at the same time.
The MDP has said the move is aimed at extending the president’s time in office.
Two constitutional cases were filed at the Supreme Court on Tuesday seeking to stop the referendum.
The Attorney General’s Office said on Monday that the referendum process complies with the Constitution.
