Parliament to Debate Constitutional Amendment on Foreign Troop Presence

A proposed constitutional amendment, requiring parliamentary approval for the stationing of foreign troops in the Maldives, is set to be debated in parliament today.

The bill, which introduces stringent conditions for any foreign military presence, has sparked a wider conversation on the nation’s sovereignty and defence policies.

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Key provisions of the amendment include:

Parliamentary Approval for Military Land Use: Foreign entities would be prohibited from using Maldivian territory for military purposes unless approved by a majority of parliamentarians.

Oversight of Foreign Troop Operations: Foreign military personnel would need majority approval from parliament before operating within the Maldives.

With 93 members currently seated, at least 47 votes would be required for the amendment to pass.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, known for his firm stance on non-alignment, has voiced his opposition to the presence of foreign troops in the Maldives. He emphasised his administration’s commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and ensuring that national defence remains free from external influence.

The debate follows the recent withdrawal of Indian military personnel, stationed in the Maldives under the previous administration. In their place, civilian employees from the vehicles’ manufacturer now operate military equipment donated to the country. This transition has stirred discussions about balancing foreign aid with maintaining control over national security resources.

If passed, the amendment would create a legal framework for foreign military presence, subject to democratic oversight. Supporters argue the move promotes transparency and safeguards against unilateral decisions on military matters.

Critics, however, caution that the amendment, even with parliamentary oversight, might open the door to compromises in sovereignty. They urge careful navigation to avoid entanglement in the growing geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean region.

The Maldives’ strategic location in the Indian Ocean makes it a focal point for regional security interests, with countries like India and China vying for influence. While the nation has historically upheld a neutral stance, its position continues to draw international attention, adding complexity to domestic defence policy decisions.

The parliamentary debate is expected to set the tone for the Maldives’ future approach to foreign military engagement, with implications for its sovereignty and regional security dynamics.