The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) parliamentary group has expressed concern over the conduct of cabinet ministers summoned for questioning, accusing them of selectively avoiding inquiries from opposition lawmakers.
Speaking at a press conference held outside the People’s Majlis, MDP Parliamentary Group Deputy Leader Hussain Ziyad (Fittey) alleged that ministers are systematically refusing to answer questions posed by MDP MPs. He noted that while ministers decline to provide information on current state affairs, they readily respond to questions regarding the previous MDP administration.
"We are asking questions about the current situation of the country. If there is no relevance, they could simply say so, but what the public is witnessing today is a coordinated effort to evade accountability," Ziyad said.
MDP MPs further stated that the ministers' behavior is obstructing the Parliament from fulfilling its constitutional oversight responsibilities.
"The most disheartening part is that when ministers refuse to answer crucial questions related to the public interest, fellow honorable members of Parliament cheer and applaud. These are shameful moments in the history of this legislature," Ziyad added.
During yesterday's parliamentary session, Ziyad raised concerns regarding rumors that a recent unusual spike in measles cases was due to a shortage of testing kits. He sought clarification on the validity of these reports.
In response, Health Minister Dr. Geela Ali declined to answer, stating she did not have the information at hand. However, the Minister notably provided detailed responses to various topics raised by members of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) during the same session.
Also speaking at the press conference, MDP Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Nazil highlighted that the opposition has previously raised concerns about ministers providing false information to the floor.
"We have repeatedly noted that ministers often provide untruthful answers. The responsibility to look into these matters lies with the Speaker of the Parliament," Nazil said.
He pointed out, however, that the chair has yet to take any action regarding these grievances.
