Muizzu Proposes Public Referendum on Joint Elections

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to propose a public referendum on whether future presidential and parliamentary elections should be held jointly.

Speaking at a gathering hosted by the ruling People’s National Congress last night, President Muizzu highlighted the significant costs associated with recent elections. He noted that over MVR 180 million had been spent on the latest presidential election, and over MVR 120 million on April’s parliamentary election.

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Muizzu argued that holding the two elections together would be more efficient and beneficial for the country. “It is in the best interests of the people to hold these two elections conjointly. There is an amendment that must be brought to the Constitution for this. That amendment can be made by taking a referendum vote amongst the public,” he stated.

Muizzu suggested that, should the public approve the proposal and the constitutional amendment be passed, the next conjoint elections could take place in 2028.

Emphasising the importance of cost-efficiency in the electoral process, he remarked, “People’s participation in the running of the State is important, but elections must be held in a cost-efficient manner.” He further explained that holding the presidential and parliamentary elections together could save the State MVR 120 million. “With that MVR 120 million, the State, the government, can handle many things for families in difficult circumstances. Many things can be done,” he added.

Muizzu confirmed that this amendment would be proposed during the current parliamentary term. According to the Constitution, any changes to the election process for the President or Parliament Members must be approved through a public referendum. If the public votes against the proposal, the change cannot be implemented.