Nasheed criticises MDP MPs over cabinet approval vote

Former President Mohamed Nasheed on Thursday criticised Members of Parliament from the Maldivian Democratic Party over their decision to approve several government ministers.

Nasheed, who is contesting the party’s chairperson election, made the remarks during an event marking the 11th anniversary of Sangu TV.

The comments come amid internal competition ahead of the MDP chairperson election. Of the party’s 12 MPs, only one has publicly declared support for Nasheed.

Referring to the recent parliamentary vote, Nasheed said the People's Majlis was no longer effectively carrying out its constitutional duty of holding the executive to account.

“It is no longer possible to claim that the People’s Majlis is holding the government accountable,” he said.

Nasheed added that even the opposition had supported the administration through the ministerial approvals. While he did not name the party, the MDP is the main opposition in parliament.

He said that, under the present circumstances, the responsibility for accountability had shifted to the media.

Nasheed praised journalists for informing the public and urged them to continue their work.

“The truth is far more vital than any political pressure. You are the watchdogs of our work,” he said.

The approval of Home Minister Ali Ihusaan drew the strongest criticism from MDP members and supporters.

In the vote, Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, who is contesting against Nasheed for the party chairmanship, was the only MDP member to vote against Ihusaan’s approval.