The ruling People's National Congress (PNC) Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Falah has said that opposition MPs are only able to stand on the floor of the People’s Majlis because PNC allows it, warning that such opportunities will be withheld in the future if they do not comply with the majority's expectations.
Speaking in Parliament today, Falah noted that the PNC holds 73 seats in the house, while the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is represented by only about 11 lawmakers. He asserted that these opposition MPs are only able to function within Parliament due to the leeway granted by the PNC.
"I say this with great regret; we have kept these MDP members very close and provided them with every possible opportunity available here. Honourable Speaker, look at how much consideration we show in accommodating these 11 or so members among a majority of 70 to 73," Falah said.
"But they show no regard for this. They say whatever they please and speak however they want in this chamber. In reality, if we do not grant them the opportunity, they would not even be able to stand up."
Falah made these remarks in response to concerns raised by MDP members regarding the Rasmalé project. He argued that MDP members have no standing to submit resolutions or express concern over the project, citing that MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed had previously supported the initiative.
Furthermore, Falah defended a proposed amendment to the Parliamentary Rules of Procedure that would require a preliminary vote before debating any resolution. He stated that the amendment is necessary because the MDP submits resolutions on every minor issue.
Expressing particular frustration over criticisms of the Rasmalé project, Falah pointed to the alleged bank balances of former President Abdulla Yameen, suggesting that the MDP should instead submit resolutions regarding such matters if they want the majority's cooperation.
"We are talking about the balance in a single bank account of a former leader—MVR 457 million. Surely, if that were recovered into the state budget, it would provide relief? Then there is the talk of USD 700 million in an account in Singapore," Falah said.
"These are the things they should be submitting resolutions about. If they do, we will grant them the opportunity to vote and debate. Otherwise, there will be no further opportunities in the future," Falah warned.
