The parliamentary candidates of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have sworn not to leave the party after winning their seats.
MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail administered the oath during an event to launch MDP's parliamentary election campaign at the Artificial Beach on Monday night.
At the event, Fayyaz and MDP advisor former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih spoke about the importance of loyalty towards the party.
"MDP believes in certain principles. Party members have certain opinions too. Freedom of expression should not be limited. You should not vote for a bill that will limit that [freedom of expression]. You should assure us that you will not leave the party," Solih said.
While MDP candidates had taken an oath to remain in the party after winning their seats, this practice was seen during the parliamentary election campaign for the 19th People Majlis as well.
Despite swearing not to leave parties, some MPs left after winning their seats in the current session of the Parliament including 13 MPs from MDP who recently joined the ruling People's National Congress (PNC).
The MDP, which has a majority in parliament, has since introduced an anti-defection bill that would ensure that MPs would lose their seats if they resign from their party after the election.
