Supreme Court Grants The Democrats The Right to Intervene in Parliamentary Case
Photo: The Democrats
The Supreme Court has granted the intervention of The Democrat’s in the ongoing parliamentary debate regarding the no-confidence motion against Speaker Mohamed Nasheed.
In a communication sent through their official WhatsApp media group, The Democrats confirmed the development following the Court’s decision.
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The party moved to intervene collectively after a failed attempt by nine of its members to individually partake in the proceedings. This decision came after the Supreme Court initially dismissed the plea from the nine members.
Consequently, the party’s interim committee convened and resolved to represent the Democrats’ interests in the matter, forwarding an official letter to the Supreme Court.
Although the Supreme Court had previously declined the individual attempts by the nine Democrats to intervene, the incoming PNC/PPM government, set to assume office on the 17th of this month, has extended the opportunity to both political parties.
The Supreme Court justified its refusal of the individual Democrats’ intervention, citing it as a constitutional matter.
Scheduled for today, the Supreme Court will hear the case, with the Attorney General representing the accused in this parliamentary dispute.
The case, brought by the MDP (Maldivian Democratic Party) against the parliament’s decision, involves a constitutional issue. The MDP contends that no parliamentary activities can proceed until a ruling is made on the pending no-confidence motion.
At the core of the dispute lies the interpretation of Article 44 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, particularly in the event of the Vice-President’s absence during the session where the no-confidence motion against the Speaker is slated. The MDP seeks clarity on whether the proceedings can be chaired by one of the five longest-serving members of the Parliament in such a scenario.
Additionally, the MDP has petitioned the Supreme Court to declare that no other parliamentary business can advance until a decision is reached on the motion against the Speaker.
