MDP Proposes to Repeal Questioning of Ministers Act
Photo: People’s Majlis
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), currently holding a majority in Parliament, has put forth a proposal to repeal the Questioning of Ministers Act.
Vice Speaker of the Parliament and Hoarafushi MP, Ahmed Saleem, highlighted that the legislation in question predates the implementation of the 2008 Constitution. Article 98 of the Constitution delineates the procedural framework for interrogating ministers and government officials, affording every member the right to pose questions in writing or orally.
Remarkably, the Questioning of Ministers Act has remained unamended since the inception of the Constitution. Chapter 21 of the Rules of Procedure of the Parliament further outlines the guidelines for interrogating ministers, making the proposed bill seemingly incongruent with the existing legislative framework.
The MDP, in its latest move, has not only proposed changes to the rules of procedure concerning ministerial questioning but has also decided to eliminate the stipulation requiring questions to be focused on a specific topic.
Additionally, the time allocated for ministers to respond is slated for a reduction under the proposed amendments. The party asserts that these modifications aim to streamline and enhance the efficiency of the questioning process.