Yameen: Proposal could leave country without parliament

Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has raised concerns over plans to align the terms of the People’s Majlis and the Presidency, stating that such a move could create a gap in governance.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has issued a decree to hold a referendum on November 4 to seek public opinion on aligning presidential and parliamentary elections.

If approved, parliamentary elections scheduled for 2029 would be moved to coincide with the 2028 presidential election. Under the proposed amendment, the five-year term of the Majlis would begin on December 1 instead of May, with the Majlis dissolving at the end of the term.

Speaking at a rally held by the People’s National Front (PNF) at Artificial Beach on Thursday night, Yameen said the Majlis plays a central role in overseeing the executive.

“Even in the absence of a President, a Parliament must exist within the country. This proposal creates a situation where the nation could be left without a functioning Majlis during a transition,” he said.

Yameen stated that a parliament must remain in place at the end of a presidential term to ensure continuity in governance.

“The Majlis remains the authority to ensure that the President’s actions remain within the law and serve the public interest. This is why the presidential term and the parliamentary term must remain separate,” he said.

He added that aligning both terms could result in a concentration of authority and reduce institutional checks.

Yameen also called for the government to explain the reasons for the proposed change and to allow time for public discussion.

He rejected the argument that the measure is intended to reduce expenditure and said further justification is required for the proposal.