Parliament Debates Resolution on Unlawful Political Activities

Members of Parliament have called for an end to unlawful activities carried out by some political parties and urged authorities to take action against parties accused of violating social standards and existing laws.

The resolution, submitted by Holhudhoo MP Abdul Sattar Mohamed, seeks Parliament’s view on taking appropriate political and state action against unlawful conduct by political parties and calls on relevant authorities to respond promptly.

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It also reaffirms that the rights to free speech, expression and political association must be exercised in line with Islamic principles, respect for the dignity and rights of others, and the protection of national interests. The resolution argues that unlawful political activities are affecting public order and reducing community peace.

During the preliminary debate, MPs from the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) largely supported the resolution, arguing that stronger action was needed against political parties violating the law.

Huraa MP Dr Anara Naeem said some political activities were being conducted without regard for the rights of children and elderly people, while also involving excessive noise and behaviour outside accepted social norms.

West Maafannu MP Mohamed Musthafa Ibrahim said political parties violating the Political Parties Act should face action, including possible dissolution through court orders.

“If [political activity] is being carried out in violation of the Political Parties Act, we have to take action against them. If they are acting in violation of these things, truly, we should dissolve political parties by getting a court order issued,” Musthafa said.

North Thinadhoo MP Saudulla Hilmy said some parties appeared to believe vulgar behaviour and language were necessary to gain public support, adding that such a culture should change.

Meanwhile, MP Falah said freedom of expression should not harm others and criticised institutions for failing to fulfil their responsibilities despite significant public spending.

“The freedom of expression is granted in a manner that does not cause harm to others. Institutions must take action. Millions of rufiyaa are spent annually, yet responsibilities are not being fulfilled,” he said.

Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Fiyaz said he did not support the resolution.

South Hulhumalé MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed said some concerns raised in the resolution were valid and argued that social norms should be respected during political activities. He also referred to allegations involving President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and an ongoing investigation into false accusations, saying the root causes of the issue should also be addressed.

South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Nasym criticised the resolution and accused PNC members of hypocrisy, questioning why Parliament avoids discussions on alleged constitutional rights violations.

“Political parties have to go to the streets because the Maldivian state does not allow for political parties to protest in other ways,” Meekail said.

During the debate, most MPs spoke in favour of the resolution and stressed the importance of swift action. Several members also argued that political parties are legally required under the Political Parties Act to uphold national unity and said parties violating the law should face dissolution.

The debate comes as the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) recently warned the People’s National Front (PNF) against engaging in unlawful activities during its rallies.

In a statement issued on Sunday, ECM said it had received information that PNF had repeatedly engaged in activities considered unlawful during public gatherings and had formally advised the party against repeating such conduct. The Commission said legal action under the Political Parties Act would be taken if the activities continue.

ECM had also instructed both PNF and the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on 28 April to conduct political rallies in accordance with the law.