The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) today submitted a resolution to the government-controlled parliament calling for action against opposition political parties, accusing them of carrying out illegal anti-government activities.
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the People’s National Front (PNF) have been conducting nightly protests and activities against government policies and failures.
The resolution was introduced during today's People's Majlis sitting by Holhudhoo MP Abdul Sattar Mohamed. It characterises the activities of these parties as efforts intended to disrupt peace and stability.
Inguraidhoo MP Ibrahim Falah, the Parliamentary Group Leader of the ruling party, claimed that the emergence of political parties under the new Constitution brought negative changes to society. Falah argued that since the introduction of political parties, social conduct and order have spiralled out of control.
When questioned about the protests held by the now-dissolved Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) during the previous administration, Falah attempted to distance the current ruling party by claiming that the PPM and PNC are not the same. However, with the exception of former President Abdulla Yameen and a few others, nearly all members associated with the PPM are now part of the current government.
Opposition MPs responded with sharp criticism of the government. Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Ziyad (Fittey), the Deputy Leader of the MDP Parliamentary Group, noted that the Political Parties Act was in effect even when current government officials were active in the streets, yet no actions were taken against them.
"That same constitutional provision existed even when they were shouting 'India Out.' They seem to have forgotten. When they were running in the streets in costumes, children watched and cheered. We heard what the President and these people said back then," he said.
Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir said that the country's situation has deteriorated to the point where protesting to topple the government has become necessary. He claimed that the majority of the Maldivian people have already rejected the current administration.
"Two and a half years in, and nothing has been done for the citizens. Instead, all we see is lying and theft. It is nothing but the looting of the Maldivian people's entire treasury. There is corruption behind every single project," Mauroof alleged.
Galolhu South MP Meekail Naseem asserted that the greatest offence a political party can commit is theft, accusing the current administration of widespread corruption.
"A political party does not violate social standards through its rhetoric. The most disgraceful act a political party can commit is theft. This is the only thing this government does," Meekail said.
