MDP National Assembly Gathers to Discuss Systematic Voting

The MDP National Assembly is set to convene to discuss on a potential change in the system of government, on tuesday, as announced by MDP Vice-Chairman Ibrahim Waheed.

The primary agenda for this assembly is to ascertain the stance of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) concerning Parliament’s proposal to hold a referendum regarding the shift to a parliamentary system of government as stated to Mihaaru Media by Vice Chairman Ibrahim Waheed.

Notably, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has emphasised that the MDP will determine its support for the parliamentary system post the presidential election.

Following this electoral outcome, Speaker of the Parliament and former MDP President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed interest in rejoining the MDP. This matter was subject to debate within the MDP National Assembly’s WhatsApp group, yesterday.

Several Members of Parliament have associated Nasheed’s potential return to the MDP with the introduction of a parliamentary system.

However, despite the parliamentary resolution in favor of the change, it is important to note that the majority of National Assembly members do not appear to support this shift.

MDP Chairman Fayyaz Ismail has also voiced his opposition to the transition to a parliamentary system. He suggested that President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu should be given the opportunity to rule the government.

During the second round of campaigning, the President indicated the possibility of a systematic vote taking place this month. However, such a vote would require approval by a three-fourths majority of Members of Parliament.