Parliament Committee Approves Amendment for Ramadan Recess

The General Purpose Committee of Parliament has approved an amendment to shorten the first session of Parliament and recess during Ramadan.

The amendment, proposed by People’s National Congress (PNC) MP Abdulla Rifau, aims to restructure Parliament’s annual schedule. Under the revised plan, the first session will begin in January and conclude by the end of the month. The second session will run from April to the end of July, while the third session will remain unchanged, spanning from September to the end of November.

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As the first session this year began in February, the remaining sessions will follow the updated timeline.

The committee, chaired by Holhudhoo MP Abdul Sattar Mohamed, passed the amendment without changes, citing the importance of maximising opportunities for worship during Ramadan.

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP Ameen Faisal opposed the amendment, arguing that work itself is a form of worship in Islam. He highlighted that significant battles in Islamic history took place during Ramadan and noted that civil service employees continue working for the first 20 days of the holy month.

Despite objections, PNC members defended the amendment, stressing that no working days would be lost under the revised schedule.

Some members questioned whether Parliament should amend the schedule each year to accommodate Ramadan. MP Abdul Sattar clarified that the regulation would remain in effect until 2029. Any further amendments should be considered that year, as the election of a new Parliament would necessitate a regulatory review.