President Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday swiftly signed into law a contentious constitutional amendment expanding presidential powers and imposing stricter measures on parliamentarians switching political parties, just hours after its parliamentary approval.
The amendment, passed earlier in the day with 78 votes in favour and 13 against, was gazetted immediately, making it effective. The legislation introduces key changes to the Constitution, including the loss of parliamentary seats for MPs who defect or are expelled by their parties, enhanced presidential authority over state policy and development, and new requirements for parliamentary or public approval on sensitive matters such as foreign troop deployment and territorial changes.
The bill was debated and passed in an expedited process that began late Tuesday night, with opposition leaders and political analysts condemning the speed of its progression. The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MPs, along with independent MP Abdul Rahman of Addu Meedhoo, opposed the legislation, citing concerns about its impact on democratic norms and parliamentary independence.
Immediate Impact and Reactions
The Muizzu administration has defended the changes as necessary to ensure political stability and safeguard governance from undue influence. Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla said the amendment strengthens accountability, while the ruling Progressive National Congress (PNC) hailed it as a step towards addressing political instability.
The MDP, however, reiterated its criticism of the rushed process and warned that the changes could lead to excessive concentration of power in the presidency. Party leaders have also raised concerns over the potential erosion of checks and balances in the democratic system.
Broader Context
The amendment comes amid mounting political tension in the Maldives, including disputes over the recently implemented foreign exchange regulations, which require tourist establishments to convert a portion of their revenue into Maldivian Rufiyaa. Opposition to the policy has been growing, particularly from influential figures in the tourism sector.
With the rushed enactment of the constitutional changes, analysts suggest the Muizzu administration is consolidating its political base while addressing internal challenges, including the potential defections of parliamentarians from the PNC and ongoing legal challenges to the Anti-Defection Act.
The developments have also sparked public outcry, with protests near Parliament intensifying in the hours leading up to the vote. Security in the area was heightened, with roads cordoned off and a heavy police presence deployed as MPs voted on the controversial amendment.
