Referendum is a major government scheme to deceive the public for a third time: Bigey

Former Alifushi MP Mohamed Rasheed Hussain (Bigey) has characterized the referendum scheduled to be held alongside the upcoming local council elections as a "major scheme" perpetrated by the government to deceive the public for a third time.

Speaking at a campaign rally hosted by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), he alleged that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has been holding secret meetings with the President of the Elections Commission. He stated that these interactions clearly indicate a systematic attempt by the President to consolidate power by seizing control of various independent institutions one by one.

The former lawmaker stated that the government utilized its supermajority in Parliament to unjustly seize full control of independent institutions, such as the Civil Service Commission and the Anti-Corruption Commission, by pushing through these measures after removing opposition members from the chamber.

I would characterize current actions as a grave and unjust crime—an attempt to seize the powers that were separated through the long-standing efforts of many, solely to consolidate personal control and remain in power indefinitely. The public is now presented with a critical opportunity. They have already secured a supermajority in Parliament through deception; they have seized full control of the government and stripped other institutions of their independence. This is the only remaining chance for us to stand up and say "no" to the government. I respectfully and earnestly urge our beloved citizens to reflect deeply on this moment and not let this opportunity go to waste.

Mohamed Rasheed Hussain (Bigey), the former Member of Parliament for the Alifushi constituency.

He stated that the MDP's efforts are not driven by personal interests or directed at specific individuals. The ex-MP emphasized that the party was established following a long history of reformist movements and remains steadfast in its commitment to that cause.

Bigey stated that experience has shown that every time the MDP has come to power, it has consistently ensured the protection of citizens' rights, guaranteed basic liberties, eliminated tyranny, and safeguarded the freedom of expression and the press.

This is not the direction we, the beloved citizens of the Maldives, wish to take. We have come forward to speak out not for any personal gain or self-interest. I, too, bear an individual responsibility. My duty is to safeguard this nation for my children and for the generations yet to come. I am fulfilling that duty now. Similarly, every Maldivian citizen carries this same responsibility. I urge you to fulfill that obligation with integrity. This nation does not end with a single individual; it does not end with us. We must save this country to ensure a prosperous Maldives where our children and future generations can thrive. For this reason, I repeatedly call upon you to reject the atrocities being committed by this government. The upcoming referendum is nothing more than a major crime they are orchestrating to exploit us for a third time.

Mohamed Rasheed Hussain (Bigey), the former Member of Parliament for the Alifushi constituency.

He stated that the administration secured victories in both the presidential and parliamentary elections by deceiving the public. Bigey emphasized that the only remaining opportunity to hold the government accountable is for the beloved citizens of the Maldives to come out in full force and resoundingly reject the administration in the upcoming local council elections and the ongoing efforts to consolidate them.

He stated that the path to a brighter future for the nation lies in electing candidates fielded by the MDP, rather than those representing the government, whom he characterized as subordinates to their leaders.