Ali Hussain Calls for MPs to Represent Male’ Dhafthar Registered Citizens
Photo: People’s Majlis
In a debate over a bill presented by The Democrats aimed at maintaining a specific number of MPs, Kendhoo MP Ali Hussain has called for the creation of separate permanent constituencies for individuals registered in the Dhaftharu in Male’ City who hail from other islands.
In a debate over a bill presented by The Democrats aimed at maintaining a specific number of MPs, Kendhoo MP Ali Hussain has called for the creation of separate permanent constituencies for individuals registered in the Dhaftharu in Male’ City who hail from other islands.
Read… pic.twitter.com/2e1C5VfjsP— MV+ (@mvplusmedia) October 16, 2023advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
He argued that this segment of the population, estimated to be between 15,000 and 20,000 people, currently lacks representation in the Parliament, leaving their rights unaddressed.
He also highlighted a historical issue, noting that since 2008, those registered in the Dhaftharu have been manipulated for electoral purposes, with their votes being directed towards particular parliamentary candidates chosen by the government. Consequently, they find themselves voting in different constituencies for parliamentary elections compared to presidential elections.
The proposed solution, according to Ali Hussain, is the establishment of dedicated constituencies for individuals on the Dhaftharu register. He expressed confidence that the Maldivian Election Commission (ECM) could facilitate this change.
Ali further emphasised the significance of these dedicated constituencies, pointing out that, for instance, when the government initiated a land allocation scheme for city residents, individuals on the Dhaftharu register were excluded from participation.
Despite this exclusion, they are considered as Maldivian citizens during both parliamentary and presidential elections, a situation which has left them without an advocate within the current Parliament.
In Ali Hussain’s view, this inequality in representation needs to be addressed promptly. He believes that the unique circumstances of those on the Dhaftharu register necessitate special consideration to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
