Muizzu is attempting to establish a system where he can hold the presidency with the absolute power of a monarch; we must say no to this: Waheed

Former Member of Parliament for the Ungoofaaru constituency, Mohamed Waheed (Wadde), has stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is attempting to establish a system that would allow him to hold the presidency with the absolute authority of a monarch.

Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Noonekey" campaign program, Waheed stated that the public is already witnessing numerous reasons to vote "No" in the upcoming referendum. He further noted that the extent of the government's attempts to influence the vote is becoming increasingly evident.

Waheed stated that if the proposal to hold both elections on the same day is passed as the President desires, it would result in changes to either the presidential term or the parliamentary term. He further noted that, in his view, it is more likely that the presidential term would be extended rather than the parliamentary term being shortened.

Waheed stated that the current administration is consumed by a lust for power. He warned that if the public grants them even the slightest opportunity, the government will seize far more than what was intended, leaving the citizens powerless to act.

One option is to shorten the parliamentary term, while the other is to extend the presidential term. I believe they will not shorten the parliamentary term, but will instead move to extend the presidency. They will claim the people have granted their consent for such an extension. As the saying goes, "if you give them an inch, they will take a mile."

Mohamed Waheed (Wadde), the former Member of Parliament for the Ungoofaaru constituency.

Waheed further stated that the Maldivian people will not indefinitely tolerate authoritarian rule, nor will they remain in subjection forever. He added that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is attempting to establish a system that would allow him to hold the presidency with the absolute power of a monarch.

In reality, Muizzu is not explicitly calling for a hereditary monarchy. Instead, he is attempting to establish a system where he remains President but wields the absolute power of a king. This is why the people must say no this time; we must reject a return to a hereditary-style monarchy.

Mohamed Waheed (Wadde), the former Member of Parliament for the Ungoofaaru constituency.

Furthermore, he noted that similar patterns are observed in several autocratic regimes across the globe. He asserted that the President is attempting to establish a system of governance where his authority would surpass even that of a monarchy.

Waheed has therefore urged all citizens to vote "no" in the referendum.