Muizzu Vetoes Post-Ramadan Election Amendment

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has opted to veto the amendment to the law aimed at preventing the forthcoming parliamentary elections from taking place during the month of Ramadan.

The proposed amendment, which sought to amend the General Elections Act to prohibit elections during Ramadan, was forwarded for ratification. However, Muizzu has chosen to reject and send back the amendment to parliament.

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The President’s Office stated that the decision to return the bill was made today, citing concerns that the outlined procedures within the bill could hinder the conduct of elections and potentially compromise their fairness. The Attorney General has advised the President to consider amendments to address these issues.

Scheduled for March 17th, the upcoming 20th parliamentary elections were initially set to coincide with Ramadan.

Given the overlapping timing of the election and Ramadan, concerns have been voiced. Consequently, the proposed amendment by Mohamed Shifau, MDP’s Ihavandhoo Constituency Member, advocates for holding elections ten days after Ramadan concludes.

Last week, a motion was lodged regarding the delay in approving the amendment.

Earlier statements from MDP President Abdullah Shahid suggested confidence that, if returned, the bill would secure a clear majority upon its reconsideration.