MDP will remain steadfast in its commitment to democracy and the protection of public rights: Saleem

Former Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ahmed Saleem (Salle) has stated that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding democracy and ensuring the protection of the rights of the Maldivian people.

Speaking at a press conference held by the MDP on Tuesday afternoon regarding the referendum to be held alongside April's local council elections, Saleem stated that the MDP was born out of the struggle for democracy. He emphasized that the party remains committed to democratic principles and will continue its steadfast efforts to safeguard the rights of the people.

Furthermore, Saleem stated that the MDP will intensify its efforts in any situation where the rights of citizens are at risk, asserting that the party will take all necessary actions to prevent the infringement of those rights. At the same time, Saleem highlighted that the MDP National Council has passed a resolution to reject the proposal in the upcoming referendum on merging the two elections.

The MDP is a party born out of the struggle for democracy, and it will remain steadfast in its commitment to the democratic cause. We are especially dedicated to ensuring the rights of the Maldivian people; in any situation where these rights are threatened, the MDP will intensify its efforts and take all necessary actions to prevent any infringement upon them.

Ahmed Saleem / Committee Chair and former Deputy Speaker of the People’s Majlis.

Following the decision by the MDP National Congress, Saleem announced that a special action group has been established to lead the party's campaign against the government's proposal to synchronize the two elections. Saleem stated that the government is attempting to conduct the referendum under the guise of the Local Council and Women's Development Committee elections, suggesting that the process is being carried out with hidden motives.

Furthermore, Mauroof Zakir, the Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, has been appointed as the spokesperson for the committee.

Speaking at the press conference, Mauroof stated that while President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided to hold a referendum alongside the upcoming local council elections, the true motives behind this move remain hidden from the public. Mauroof highlighted that there are numerous underlying agendas, asserting that this is a significant step in President Muizzu’s efforts to dismantle the democratic principles the people have long upheld and establish an authoritarian regime in the Maldives.

Highlighting the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) longstanding commitment to democratic efforts and the nation's independence, Mauroof stated that the party does not intend to stand by and simply grant President Muizzu such opportunities. He further emphasized that the Maldivian people must reject attempts to consolidate the two elections, which he characterized as an effort to destabilize the governing system. Mauroof also asserted that the public cannot remain idle while their right to vote is undermined, nor can they allow the nation's entire power and sovereignty to fall under the control of a single individual.