We must vote 'no' in the referendum to ensure that freedom of speech, fundamental rights, and power remain in the hands of the people: Kudoo

Member of Parliament for the North Galolhu constituency, Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo), has stated that the public must vote against the proposal to synchronize parliamentary and presidential elections to ensure that citizens retain their independence, freedom of expression, and fundamental rights and powers.

Speaking during RaajjeTV’s "Noonekey" campaign program on Saturday night, the Member of Parliament stated that there is currently no way to hold the government accountable. Kudoo noted that despite the extensive efforts of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) within Parliament, all avenues for holding the administration accountable remain blocked.

Even now, there is no mechanism to hold the government accountable. We have established rules in the People’s Majlis, and our formal inquiries must be answered. However, government offices do not even acknowledge the questions we pose. To date, more than 60 questions have been sent to ministers, and the legal deadline for them to respond has already passed. They remain completely unresponsive. How are we supposed to hold the government accountable? This lack of accountability extends even to the essential services that must be provided to the citizens.

Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo), Member of Parliament for the North Galolhu constituency.

Kudoo stated that while the existence of an opposition party is essential and carries specific responsibilities, the current administration has obstructed every possible avenue for the MDP to fulfill those duties.

Highlighting that the state media fails to provide a platform for opposition voices, the member noted that despite existing legislation governing state media, its requirements are not being met. Kudoo stated that although the law mandates the state broadcaster to maintain impartiality and provide equal access, this is currently not the case.

The member stated that since the current administration took office, the state media has failed to broadcast the voice of the opposition. He noted that while no opportunities have been provided to the opposition to date, officials would likely claim it is because the MDP refuses to participate. However, he dismissed this as a blatant lie, asserting that the state media has no intention of granting the opposition airtime because the institution is not structured to operate in such a manner.

The member reiterated that a "no" vote in the referendum is essential for those who wish to ensure that the people's freedom, freedom of expression, and their fundamental rights and powers remain firmly in their own hands.