The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Congress today approved proposed amendments to the party’s Statutes.
The passage of these amendments marks a significant overhaul of the party’s governing framework. The changes were formally proposed by the former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail.
Among the key changes approved today is the abolition of the post of Party President, establishing the Chairperson as the party’s highest-ranking official. Another major reform introduces a mandatory minimum membership duration before a member becomes eligible to vote in internal party elections.
Key amendments to the MDP constitution include
- Abolishing the post of Party President and designating the Chairperson as the top leadership position.
- Increasing the number of Vice Presidents to three, with a requirement that at least one must be a woman.
- Restricting primary voting rights to members who have been on the party registry for at least three months.
- Expanding Congress membership to include Women’s Development Committee (WDC) members and members of the Women’s Wing executive committee.
- Introducing the formal role of Congress Delegates.
- Mandating that if an MDP member is elected President of the Maldives, they must consult the National Council when formulating policies.
- Requiring the President of the Maldives to appoint the party’s Chairperson as a Special Advisor.
While the individual amendments to the constitution have been approved, a final vote to adopt the revised constitution in its entirety is scheduled for tonight.
Following the final vote on the constitution, the congress will hold its closing ceremony tonight. It was announced today that general members will be given the opportunity to express their views during this session.
