The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Sunday accused President Mohamed Muizzu of attempting to weaken judicial independence and consolidate power, following his removal of a member from the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and a proposed change to the Supreme Court’s composition.
The party said Muizzu’s decision to dismiss Mohamed Sameer from the JSC and appoint Yazmeed Mohamed, a former anti-corruption official and parliamentary candidate for the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), was a “blatant attempt to undermine judicial independence.”
“The timing and nature of this appointment is deeply concerning, especially as Yazmeed has no experience in the legal field and appears downright unqualified for this crucial role,” the MDP said in a statement.
The JSC oversees judicial conduct and has the authority to appoint and remove judges. The opposition warned that changes to its composition, along with a proposed amendment to reduce the number of Supreme Court justices, were aimed at influencing an ongoing constitutional case.
The apex court is hearing a complaint challenging a recent amendment to the constitution, passed by the PNC-controlled parliament, which would strip lawmakers of their seats if they leave or are expelled from the party under which they were elected. The first hearing took place on 17 February.
The MDP alleged that ruling party lawmakers had been instructed to file complaints against sitting Supreme Court justices, a move it described as a “clear attempt to threaten and subvert” the judiciary.
The party accused Muizzu of “continuous government overreach” and “systematic attempts to consolidate power.” It further stated that the President “has ignored continued calls by opposition parties, civil service organizations, and citizens to respect the separation of powers, uphold constitutional principles, and continues to pursue a path of authoritarianism and political repression.”
The MDP also warned that with the powers of the Executive and a majority in Parliament, “any new appointment to the judiciary will be handpicked by President Muizzu and likely rubber-stamped by a parliament that has been stripped of any ability to hold the administration accountable.”
The party further urged Maldivians and the international community to remain “vigilant against these blatant attacks” on the country’s democratic institutions, saying that Muizzu’s actions are part of a broader attempt to “dismantle Maldives’ constitutionally guaranteed separation of powers.”
The government has so far not commented on the opposition’s allegations.