Parliament Accepts Public Referendum Bill, Sends to Independence Committee for Review

The Parliament has accepted the Public Referendum Bill submitted by the government and referred it to the Committee on Independent Institutions for further review. The bill, which aims to establish a legal framework for holding public referendums on key national matters, was accepted with 62 votes during Monday’s sitting.

The bill was presented on behalf of the government by Inguraidhoo MP Ibrahim Falah, who stressed the importance of reading and understanding the proposed legislation. He described the bill as a milestone in empowering the public, claiming it reflects President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s intention to transfer key decision-making powers to the people.

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“This bill shows that even with a supermajority, the government will not act against public interest or misuse its power,” Falah said, adding that positive amendments are expected during committee review.

The proposed legislation seeks to operationalise Article 262 of the Constitution, which provides for national referendums. It lays out clear procedures and responsibilities for applicants, the Elections Commission, and government bodies in facilitating a referendum. The bill comprises 39 articles and covers major constitutional issues—including changes to fundamental rights, presidential terms, national boundaries, and the electoral process.

Among the key proposals are:

• Moving the presidential inauguration date from November 17 to November 11, aligning it with Maldives’ Republic Day.
• Eliminating the second round of presidential elections by introducing a new voting mechanism.
• Combining presidential and parliamentary elections to reduce costs and logistical strain.
• Giving the president and Parliament the authority to initiate referendums on significant national issues.

The bill also stipulates that referendums must be held within 45 to 90 days of submission, with citizens aged 18 and above eligible to vote via secret ballot. Results must be announced within 14 days.

While several ruling coalition MPs praised the bill as a step forward in democratic governance, opposition MPs from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) voiced concerns over the intent and timing of the legislation. Kanditheemu MP Ameen Faisal called for the inclusion of a public petition mechanism to truly empower citizens to initiate referendums, while Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir questioned the government’s priorities amid rising living costs and economic instability.

Despite criticism, MDP members acknowledged the necessity of the bill and expressed support for its review and amendment at committee stage.