Parliament Passes Anti-Defection Bill Amidst Amendments

Parliament passed the Anti-Defection Bill proposed by Ahmed Abdulla, MP for Baarah constituency of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), after significant amendments by a special committee aimed at addressing concerns over MPs switching parties, during yesterday’s parliamentary session.

With 33 votes in favour and six against, the revised bill garnered parliamentary approval. Notable changes include a provision mandating MPs to resign if they defect from the party under which they were elected. The original proposal threatened expulsion from parliament, but the amended version now requires MPs to submit their resignation within seven days of joining another party or becoming independent.

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Despite the clarity on resignation procedures, concerns linger over the lack of directives for cases where MPs refuse to comply. Additionally, the removal of provisions for MP recall votes has raised eyebrows, with the committee deeming it unnecessary given the revised bill’s efficacy in achieving its objectives.

Moreover, the amended bill introduces a recourse for MPs dismissed from their parties, allowing them to contest their dismissal in court within seven days. Furthermore, similar resignation requirements are extended to members of local councils.

However, despite its passage, dissenting voices within parliament, notably Minority Leader Moosa Siraj, have expressed reservations. Siraj questioned the effectiveness of the amended bill, citing uncertainties surrounding non-compliance scenarios and accusing the legislation of lacking sincerity in its implementation.

The history of the Anti-Defection Bill dates back to the 18th parliamentary session, where a similar proposal was introduced but subsequently withdrawn by the MDP following a change in government.