We must vote 'no' in the referendum as this is a deceptive plot by the government to overhaul the entire Constitution: Mariya

Former Defense Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi has urged the public to reject the upcoming referendum held alongside the local council elections, characterizing the vote as a deceptive maneuver by the current administration to overhaul the Constitution through fraudulent means.

Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Noonekey" campaign program, Mariya Didi described the upcoming referendum as a dangerous and alarming move. She noted that while the government claims the constitutional amendment to synchronize elections is aimed at cost-cutting, the Attorney General has already indicated that this is merely the beginning of further changes.

Mariya stated that when former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom sought to amend the Constitution, he introduced a comprehensive reform agenda. She noted that his approach encompassed the entire framework, whereas the current administration is making changes piece by piece. Mariya asserted that this is not how the process should be conducted.

If this is indeed just the beginning, it suggests they have a long-term vision to overhaul the entire Constitution. Why would the Attorney General describe this as merely a starting point? Furthermore, why has he failed to disclose the series of subsequent changes they intend to introduce? The fact that these actions are being carried out in secrecy is undoubtedly a matter of grave concern for the public. This is why we are urging everyone to say no to this.

Former Defense Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi

If this is only the beginning, it is impossible to estimate the extent to which this government will ultimately alter the Constitution. While the administration repeatedly admits its intention to continue amending the law, Mariya warned that unless the public votes "no" in this referendum, the government will persist in holding numerous such votes to facilitate further constitutional changes.

Consequently, Mariya reiterated that it is necessary to say "no" to the referendum.

In reality, their own admissions are painting a far more alarming picture than what is currently written. They have stated clearly that this is only the beginning. We anticipate that numerous further amendments to the Constitution are yet to come. When such changes are anticipated, it is unacceptable to rush to the public for a simple "yes" or "no" on a single issue without disclosing the full scope of the intended modifications, only to use that as a gateway to push through a multitude of other agendas. This is not how things should be done.

Former Defense Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi

Mariya stated that the government's decision to consolidate the two elections is not intended to reduce costs. She further noted that if the public consents to this move, it would mark the government's first successful step in amending the Constitution to suit its own interests.