Solih Claims Gov’t Plans Supreme Court Restructuring as Political Tensions Escalate
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has alleged that the government led by the Progressive National Congress (PNC) is planning to restructure the Supreme Court bench as its next move.
He made the statement during a rally held by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) at the carnival area in Male’, yesterday.
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At the rally, Solih criticised the government’s recent constitutional amendment, arguing that it conflicts with established constitutional provisions regarding the responsibilities of Members of Parliament (MPs). According to Solih, the constitution requires MPs to prioritise the national interest and the welfare of citizens while prohibiting the misuse of their office for personal gain.
Solih expressed his expectation that the Supreme Court would address these constitutional conflicts and issue a decision in line with the people’s democratic rights. However, he warned that the government would seek to alter the Supreme Court bench to consolidate its position.
“The next step for this government will be to change the bench of the Supreme Court,” he said. “It will not stop until that is achieved. This will reveal the character of the government.”
Furthermore, Solih accused the government of undermining key democratic institutions, including the judiciary, Parliament, and independent bodies. He also alleged government interference in financial institutions, warning that these actions could pave the way for a dictatorship. “These actions pave the way for a dictatorship,” Solih stated.The former President underscored the MDP’s commitment to opposing these actions and restoring citizens’ rights.
MDP passed a petition demanding the repeal of the constitutional amendment. Additionally, the MDP National Assembly adopted a resolution to support any PNC MP who loses their parliamentary seat due to expulsion or defection and contests a by-election. The resolution was unanimously approved at a National Assembly meeting prior to the rally.
MDP Pledges to Support Expelled PNC MPs in By-Elections
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has resolved to support and campaign for Progressive National Congress (PNC) MPs who may lose their parliamentary seats under the recent constitutional amendment. This decision comes as political divisions continue to widen in the Maldives.
The resolution was passed during a meeting of the MDP National Assembly at the carnival area in Malé. It was proposed by MDP Legal Director and Kolamaafushi president Mahfooz Saeed and received unanimous approval from all 89 members in attendance.
The constitutional amendment, approved earlier this year, stipulates that MPs will lose their parliamentary seats if they leave their party or join another.
The resolution committed the MDP to actively support expelled MPs contesting by-elections. “If an MP is expelled from their party for statements, votes, or actions taken in the public interest, and they choose to contest the by-election, the MDP will actively campaign for their re-election to represent their constituency,” it read.
The MDP also approved a petition earlier in the day that reaffirms its position that the amendment undermines democratic principles and constitutional processes.
