Only three sittings held this term; Parliament remains deadlocked and in limbo as the government attempts to silence opposition: Shamheed

Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, the Member of Parliament for the South Hulhumale' constituency, has stated that only three sittings have been held during the first session of the People's Majlis in 2024. He further asserted that the parliament remains deadlocked and in a state of uncertainty.

The current first session of the year commenced on February 5th. Since then, the Parliament has convened for only three sittings. Despite nearly a month passing since the session began, no explanation has been provided for the cancellation of the scheduled sittings.

Expressing his concerns in an interview with RaajjeTV, MP Shamheed stated that the current situation is deeply alarming. He further asserted that the government has effectively hijacked the entire Parliament by failing to convene sessions and keeping members in the dark regarding legislative proceedings.

Shamheed stated that members are left in a state of uncertainty every sitting day regarding whether the session will actually take place. He noted that this is because neither the Parliament Secretariat nor Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla provides any prior clarification or formal notification to the members.

Shamheed stated that Parliament is one of the most vital institutions for holding the government accountable. He emphasized that it is the primary venue where the people's representatives must question the administration, particularly regarding current global events and their potential impact on the Maldives. However, the member noted that by failing to convene sessions, the opportunity to hold the government accountable has been effectively obstructed.

The member stated that this action is likely an attempt to silence opposition MDP members ahead of the upcoming council elections. He suggested the government is acting out of fear that the opposition's rhetoric could create a negative impact and lead to a loss of votes. Shamheed further noted that this is a matter of grave concern for the party.

Regarding this matter, Shamheed shared a post on X on Sunday. In his post, he noted that only three sittings have been held since the Parliament reconvened following a two-month recess. He expressed frustration that the past two weeks were spent in a state of uncertainty, with members left in the dark regarding when sessions would be scheduled. The lawmaker further questioned whether members should receive a salary for work that has not been performed.

According to the parliamentary rules of procedure, sittings shall be held every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday while the Parliament is in session.