The Chairperson of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, has invited the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) to engage in dialogue to resolve concerns regarding the constitutional amendments passed by the PNC’s supermajority in Parliament.
The 20th People’s Majlis has been introducing significant changes to the Constitution. While some of these amendments have already come into effect, others failed to secure public support in a recent referendum and cannot be implemented.
"The two parties must sit down and talk to find a solution regarding these constitutional amendments. MPs cannot be kept chained," said Ghafoor, who serves as the MP for the Hanimaadhoo constituency.
Ghafoor’s remarks come after the current Parliament amended the Constitution to grant political parties the power to strip lawmakers of their seats. This matter is currently before the Supreme Court, with a hearing scheduled for tomorrow.
"The Head of State must fulfill his responsibilities when corruption and mismanagement of state funds occur. This is a conversation that must be had; there must be justice and equality for everyone," Ghafoor added.
In a referendum held alongside the local council elections on April 4, approximately 70 percent of the public rejected a government proposal. The amendment sought to align presidential and parliamentary elections to be held on the same day, which would have shortened the current parliamentary term by six months.
Ghafoor’s call for inter-party dialogue follows the MDP’s success in securing major population centers in the local council elections. The opposition party had also campaigned for a "No" vote in the referendum against the government's proposal.
Due to the PNC’s supermajority in the People’s Majlis, critics argue there is a lack of substantive debate on pressing national issues. Discussions by PNC members are largely characterized by praise for President Mohamed Muizzu.
With only 12 MPs representing the MDP, the opposition’s voice remains faint on the Parliament floor. It is currently unclear whether the government will respond to Ghafoor’s invitation for talks.
