Nasheed urges rethink on proposed referendum

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has urged the government to reconsider its decision to hold a public referendum on synchronizing presidential and parliamentary elections.

In a post on X on Thursday, former President Nasheed highlighted President Muizzu’s request for Indian assistance in securing fuel during this period of scarcity, while also emphasizing the urgent need for expenditure reduction.

Former President Nasheed stated that while the Maldives seeks India's assistance with fuel, the nation must also prove itself to be a responsible partner. In this regard, he emphasized that strengthening democracy in the Maldives is essential for ensuring regional stability and progress.

He stated that India has extended a helping hand whenever the Maldives has been in need. Nasheed highlighted that India provided vital assistance during critical times, such as the 1988 coup attempt, the tsunami disaster, the water crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nasheed stated that strengthening democracy in the Maldives is essential. He emphasized that any constitutional amendments should be made through broad consultations with all stakeholders, rather than being rushed.

Opposition parties have accused the government of rushing constitutional amendments and treating the process like a game to merge two elections. They allege that this is part of a deceptive plan to establish an authoritarian regime in the Maldives.

The referendum is scheduled to take place on April 4, coinciding with the local council elections. A total of 294,937 individuals are eligible to vote in both the council elections and the referendum.