MDP Pickup Rally: "EC informs it will not investigate complaints regarding presidential election interference"
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has voiced strong opposition against alleged government plots to extend the presidential term, condemning efforts to undermine the power of the people. The party expressed grave concern over the use of job security threats and bribery to influence elections, further accusing state institutions of negligence in failing to prevent such undemocratic practices.
Maaz Saleem speaking at the MDP pickup rally. | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
Ahmed Saleem (Maaz Saleem), a member of the MDP National Congress, has stated that the Elections Commission (EC) informed him it will not investigate a complaint he filed regarding the government of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu allegedly influencing the presidential election.
He made these remarks while speaking at an MDP pickup rally held on Tuesday afternoon.
Saleem has stated that the purpose of holding a public referendum is to use the people as a means to strip them of their own power. He emphasized that the citizens' right to vote must not be undermined. Saleem noted that just as the powers of the People’s Majlis were dismantled through its own members, the government is now attempting to diminish the power of the public vote by involving the public themselves. Saleem described this as a highly deceptive move by the government. He further noted that while undue influence is being exerted, there are currently no independent institutions to investigate or oversee these actions.
"To ensure the vote outcome aligns with President Muizzu's interests, they are resorting to bribery, intimidation, and the strategic hiring and firing of employees. We have already filed a formal complaint regarding this. However, the Elections Commission informed us today that they will not investigate the matter, stating it is outside their jurisdiction and advising us to take the case to the Anti-Corruption Commission instead," he said.
In addition to Saleem, the Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, Mauroof Zakir, also addressed the gathering. During his speech, Zakir alleged that the government is planning to extend the presidential term. He argued that there is no reason to grant further opportunities to an individual who has failed to fulfill the promises made to come into power. He further asserted that this administration has failed to achieve anything beneficial for the citizens. Zakir also stated that the government is systematically marginalizing and impoverishing the public.
The pickup rally concluded with an announcement that a meeting is scheduled to take place at the party headquarters on Tuesday night. The MDP has also decided to hold a major protest on March 21st against the proposed referendum to determine whether presidential and parliamentary elections should be held on the same date.
