Solih Urges Rejection of ‘Deceptive’ Ballot Paper Hidden Within Parallel Election
The constitutional amendment passed today regarding the conduct of referendums was described as a baseless measure enacted without proper procedure, with the sole objective of manipulating presidential election outcomes.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that a constitutional amendment brought about by deceiving the public and hiding it behind another election is unacceptable, and urged the people to reject such a move.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Addu City, Solih noted that in some islands, the number of registered voters residing in Male' exceeds those living on the islands themselves, describing it as a matter that requires serious consideration. The former President further highlighted that in certain constituencies, the ballots cast in Male' alone have the power to shift the entire outcome of an election.
Solih stated that those considering constitutional amendments would be better served by focusing their attention on other more pressing matters.
I believe those seeking to amend the law must consider whether this is a desirable approach. In my view, the necessary change is to ensure that in such elections, the right to vote is restricted solely to the residents of that specific constituency.Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih
Solih further stated that the constitutional amendment passed today to facilitate a referendum was enacted without any proper basis or principles, asserting that its sole purpose is to manipulate the outcome of the presidential election. He noted that if there were a sincere intention to serve the public through constitutional reform, there are numerous other pressing issues that could have been addressed instead.
Furthermore, Solih emphasized that a ballot paper designed to deceive the public and hidden behind another election is unacceptable, urging citizens to vote "no" in the referendum.
We must reflect deeply on these matters. We must say a firm "no" to this third ballot paper being introduced alongside the election. This is a vote that will dismantle our entire system. If passed, there will be no reason for the government to return to the people for the next five years.Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih
Solih has urged the public to deliver a clear message to the government by voting "no" in the referendum scheduled for April 4.
