Parliament on Wednesday passed a controversial constitutional amendment that introduces stricter measures against parliamentarians switching political parties, while also expanding presidential authority and amending other key provisions.
The amendment, introduced by the Mohamed Muizzu administration, was debated and voted on in an expedited process. A three-fourths majority, or 70 votes, was required to pass the changes. The final vote saw 78 members in favour and 13 against, with opposition coming from Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members and independent MP Abdul Rahman from Addu Meedhoo.
The legislation was presented late on Tuesday night and underwent its first reading, preliminary debate, committee review, and final vote on Wednesday. The fast progression of the amendment drew criticism from opposition leaders and political analysts, who argued that the process undermined democratic principles.
Key Provisions of the Amendment
- Loss of Parliamentary Seats
MPs will now lose their seats if they switch political parties, are expelled by their parties, or are independent MPs who join a party mid-term. - Expanded Presidential Powers
The amendment grants the president additional authority to set state policies, guide government agencies, and formulate national development plans. - Territorial Changes
Any changes to the territory of the Maldives now require approval by two-thirds of Parliament. - Foreign Troop Deployment
The amendment mandates parliamentary approval for stationing foreign troops in the Maldives for military purposes. Non-military deployments for training and other activities are exempt. - Referendum Requirement
Certain constitutional changes will now require a public referendum, including amendments to the Fundamental Rights chapter, presidential term limits, and election-related articles.
Political Reactions
The ruling Progressive National Congress (PNC) championed the bill as a “safeguard against political instability and the undue influence of business figures in politics.” Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla defended the amendment, saying it ensures accountability and strengthens governance.
President Muizzu, addressing MPs earlier, emphasised the need for these changes amid rumours of defections within the PNC and ongoing legal challenges to the Anti-Defection Act in the High Court.
The MDP criticised the rushed nature of the amendment, with party members and supporters staging protests near Parliament. Opposition leaders warned that the changes could concentrate power in the presidency and erode democratic norms.
Context of the Amendment
The amendment comes amid heightened political tensions, including controversy over recent foreign exchange regulations requiring tourist establishments to exchange a portion of their revenue into Maldivian Rufiyaa. Despite pushback from the influential tourism sector, President Muizzu has reaffirmed his commitment to the policy.
As Parliament conducted the historic vote, roads surrounding the parliament house remained cordoned off with a heavy police presence.
Analysts suggest the swift passage of the amendment reflects the Muizzu administration’s efforts to consolidate its parliamentary supermajority while addressing internal dissent and public scrutiny.
