Adhadhu has learnt that the parliament is planning to hold another extraordinary sitting on Monday (September 15).
The parliament Secretariat said they do not have any information about the sitting, but credible sources confirmed the decision.
Adhadhu understands that the referendum bill sponsored by the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) parliamentary group leader Inguraidhoo MP Ibrahim Falah will be on the agenda for the sitting.
According to the bill, public referendums can be held on:
- Important matters relating to the people
- Issues of national importance
- Changing any provisions of the Chapter on Fundamental Rights and Freedoms of the Constitution
- Changing the duration of the parliament's term
- Changing the duration of the presidential term
- Changing the process of electing the President
- Changing the process of bill ratification
- Changing the territory of the Maldives
- To accept or reject a bill on constitutional amendment when it is not ratified by the President
A majority of the parliament must pass a resolution to go to a vote on important issues affecting the people. The bill also allows for a vote on issues of national importance through a presidential decree.
The committee stage of the bill was held behind closed doors, so it is unclear whether any changes were made.
The date for the parliament sitting is also the deadline for completion of the Media Bill. If the work is completed, a vote is expected to be taken on the parliament floor to pass the bill.
The bill, labelled as an attempt to dismantle free media, is being pushed ahead despite concern and calls for withdrawal from local and international organisations and the journalist community.
