President Solih: This administration is attempting to orchestrate a secret coup alongside the local council elections
Solih stated that the reform movement initiated in the Maldives 25 years ago compelled former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom to amend the Constitution during his final term and steer the nation toward a modern democracy. In this regard, the President highlighted the transparent efforts undertaken at the time, including the formulation of a reform agenda and the submission of legislative drafts to the Special Majlis.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih speaking at an MDP rally.| MDP | MDP
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has alleged that the current administration is attempting to orchestrate a clandestine "constitutional coup" ahead of the upcoming local council elections.
He made these remarks while addressing a gathering at the MDP headquarters. President Solih stated that there should be no room for clandestine activities behind this election, asserting that the government's current objective is to silence the voice of the people and diminish their power. He further noted that the MDP has decided to say "no" to the ongoing efforts to consolidate power and steer the nation toward authoritarian rule.
Expressing concern over the current process of amending the Constitution, former President Solih stated that the drafting and debate of the existing Constitution 18 years ago were conducted with significant transparency. Highlighting his role as a Member of Parliament at the time, as well as his membership in the Special Majlis and the Drafting Committee, he shared detailed insights into how the process was carried out during that period.
President Solih stated that the reform movement initiated in the Maldives 25 years ago compelled former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom to amend the Constitution during his final term and steer the nation toward a modern democracy. In this regard, the President highlighted the transparent efforts undertaken at the time, including the formulation of a reform agenda and the submission of legislative drafts to the Special Majlis.
President Solih stated that the Special Majlis of that time engaged in extensive deliberations regarding the Maldives' territory, fundamental rights, the system of governance, the judiciary, and independent institutions. He further noted that the drafting committee, composed of 22 to 24 members, conducted its work through a transparent process open to the public, incorporating the views and feedback of the citizens.
President Solih further noted that the current 301-article Constitution was ratified only after extensive debate and amendments were proposed for each individual article, following a rigorous multi-stage process. He highlighted that although the Special Majlis at the time included government appointees and cabinet ministers, those members debated and voted independently. President Solih asserted that had they acted otherwise, the nation would not have the Constitution it has today.
