PNC MPs ready to join opposition if seats can be protected, says Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has claimed that several Members of Parliament from the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) are prepared to join the opposition but are reluctant to do so because of constitutional provisions that would result in the loss of their seats.

Solih made the remarks during a rally held in Hithadhoo on Thursday night to conclude the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) campaign for the Hithadhoo North parliamentary by-election.

Under amendments to the Constitution, MPs elected on a party ticket lose their parliamentary seats if they leave or are expelled from the party under which they were elected.

Addressing supporters, Solih said the opposition's immediate priority was to “save the People's Majlis”.

According to Solih, the anti-defection provision has prevented some MPs from acting independently despite concerns about the actions of the government.

“Two days ago, a PNC member of parliament called me,” Solih said. “He told me that a number of members are ready to leave the PNC and work to hold the government accountable, but they are seeking assurances.”

Solih claimed that these lawmakers wanted guarantees that they would be able to retain or regain their parliamentary seats if they chose to leave the ruling party.

He further alleged that some MPs were prepared to challenge the government if an understanding could be reached through cooperation between former Presidents Mohamed Nasheed, Abdulla Yameen and himself.

Solih used the rally to criticise the constitutional amendment governing party defections.

He argued that lawmakers are elected on the basis of promises made to their constituencies and should be free to make decisions when governments fail to fulfil those commitments.

According to Solih, parliamentarians should have the ability to scrutinise legislation and government policies without fear of losing their seats.

He said that requiring MPs to remain with a political party throughout a five-year parliamentary term had altered the functioning of parliament.

Solih also linked the issue to the Hithadhoo North by-election, where MDP candidate Abdulla Sodiq is contesting against the ruling party's candidate.

He predicted that the election could lead to broader political changes within parliament.

“The scales are tipping in our favour,” Solih told supporters. “If Sodiq is elected on Saturday, changes will follow in the People's Majlis.”

Solih further claimed that the opposition would increase pressure on President Mohamed Muizzu and his administration in the coming months.

The Hithadhoo North by-election will be held on Saturday following the vacancy created by the loss of the parliamentary seat previously held by Mohamed Sinan.