MDP Accuses President Muizzu of Attempting to Dismantle Separation of Powers
Photo: Parliament
Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) condemns President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s attempts at dismantling constitutionally guaranteed separation of powers.
After the parliament amended the constitution to allow lawmakers to lose their seats if they leave a political party or if they are removed from a political party, a plea was filed with the Supreme Court to overturn this amendment. During the second hearing regarding the case, the Supreme Court decided this was a case they could proceed with, despite objections by state prosecutors.
advertisement
However, yesterday, President Muizzu removed Uz Mohamed Sameer from the Judicial Oversight Services Commission (JSC) and replaced him with Yazmeed Mohamed. As Yazmeed had ran for parliamentary office on a ticket from the current ruling party People’s National Congress (PNC), and served as a member of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) during former President Yameen’s administration, MDP said in their press release that the timing of this appointment was suspicious.
Press Statement: MDP Condemns President Muizzu’s Attempts to Undermine the Constitution and Subvert Judicial Independence pic.twitter.com/0dPHInzZtx— MDP Secretariat (@MDPSecretariat) February 23, 2025
“The timing and nature of this appointment is deeply concerning especially as Yazmeed has no experience in the legal field, and appears downright unqualified for the crucial role,” MDP said in its press release, in English.
Additionally, PNC has submitted an amendment to the Courts Act, seeking to reduce the number of seats held by the Supreme Court, from seven to five.
In the press release, MDP says they see the President’s moves as an attempt to subvert the country’s highest judicial authority during a sensitive time when the Supreme Court is currently looking into a constitutional case.
They are concerned any new member appointed to serve in the Supreme Court would be handpicked by the President and will fail to hold the administration accountable.
“President Muizzu’s administration has thus far been characterized by continuous government outreach, systematic attempt to consolidate power unto himself, and dismantling of democratic norms across the boards,” MDP said.
The opposition party calls on the citizens of Maldives and the international community to stand vigilant against “these blatant attacks on our democratic institutions.”
