Former Speaker of Parliament and leader of Jumhooree Party (JP), Qasim Ibrahim, has voiced caution regarding the timing of the referendum on the governance system, particularly after the recent presidential elections, saying it would be against the spirit of the Constitution and detrimental to the country’s stability.

Ibrahim raises concerns that the Parliament’s hasty resolution to call for a vote is not just at odds with the Maldives’ Constitution, but also deviates from international norms. 

His comments echo Transparency Maldives’ recent statement on the compressed timeline for a similar referendum, which highlighted the importance of having an informed electorate and allowing adequate time for public debate.

Taking a leaf from global precedents, Ibrahim’s warning holds weight, according to analysts. Referendums on such significant issues, as seen in the Brexit decision in the United Kingdom, or the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, can have long-lasting and sometimes unforeseen implications. Analysts say the complexities that arise post-referendum often require years of negotiations, potentially leading to a loss of political, social, and economic stability.

Ibrahim highlights that the push for a vote could not only spark “the fire of sedition and corruption” but also tarnish the Maldives’ reputation internationally. He points out that the rush to change the government system seems to serve political interests, much like in Dhaka, where authorities are attempting to disrupt an established system with the sole intention of gaining power. Such actions, Ibrahim warns, could lead to a loss of stability and derail the country’s progress.

According to Ibrahim, changing the system of governance to a parliamentary one would primarily benefit political elites, including members of parliament and potential prime ministers. This viewpoint is corroborated by many who feel that the shift towards a parliamentary system serves to empower a select few rather than the broader populace.

Concluding his statement, the former speaker urges those advocating for the systematic vote to cease their efforts and focus on national stability. He contends that the country can be saved from its current plight and make progress only if political and social stability is firmly established.