President Muizzu is attempting to merge elections to seize power through influence and coercion, fearing that the public will reject him in 2028: Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the constitutional amendment to synchronize the two elections was introduced because the government realizes President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu will face defeat in the 2028 presidential election, and is seeking to influence the outcome to secure a win.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the campaign office for Fathimath Laiza, the MDP candidate for the North Henveiru constituency in the upcoming local council elections, former President Solih stated that there is a deeper issue unfolding behind the scenes that requires careful consideration. He noted that a significant change is being introduced to the public in secrecy, highlighting that this pertains to a proposed amendment to the Constitution.

The former president stated that the Constitution mandates public referendums for only a very limited number of matters, noting that such requirements exist because those issues are of significant national importance. He criticized the current proceedings, remarking that matters requiring such gravity are being handled as if they were sudden whims. He noted that bills are being sent to Parliament, debated for roughly half an hour, and passed by committees in just five minutes. He further alleged that these measures are being rushed through the floor and sent for public vote only after removing all dissenting members from the chamber.

This is not the appropriate procedure for amending the Constitution, particularly regarding matters that require a public referendum. First and foremost, the Parliament must have established protocols for such processes. There should be clear guidelines on how to handle issues brought before the Parliament that necessitate a national referendum. When such matters are deliberated within Parliament and presented to the public, the advantages and disadvantages must be clearly explained to the citizens. Instead, this issue is being pursued covertly and through the back door, without any of these necessary steps being taken.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih

Former President Solih stated that every leader assumes office with a set of pledges and a manifesto. Questioning whether President Muizzu’s manifesto included the proposal to combine two elections, the former president remarked that he does not believe any such commitment was ever made.

President Solih stated that it was never mentioned at the time whether members elected to the People's Majlis for a five-year term were actually being chosen for four years and six months, noting that no such discussions ever took place.

It is crystal clear that the people will reject him in 2028. Therefore, these actions are an attempt to manipulate and exert undue influence to seize victory in that election. Consequently, we must say no to President Muizzu in the upcoming local council elections. We must reject his agenda and his candidates. This is a prime opportunity for the citizens to say no to this administration.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih

Former President Solih stated that all ongoing projects in Malé and the islands have come to a standstill, noting that there are no signs of any new initiatives being undertaken. He emphasized the need for collective action to overcome this situation and expressed hope that voters in Malé and across the country would recognize the current state of affairs and cast their ballots for the MDP in this election.