Referendum scheduled for April 4th is a forced vote that denies citizens a genuine choice: Saif
He characterized the government's move to hold this vote under the guise of cost-cutting as a deceptive attempt to mislead the public and a dangerous maneuver to curtail rights granted within the democratic system.
Mohamed Saif Fathih, the Male' City Council member for the North Galolhu constituency, speaks during Raajje TV's "Noonekey" campaign program. | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
Mohamed Saif Fathih, the Male' City Councilor for the North Galolhu constituency, has characterized the referendum scheduled for April 4 as a forced vote that offers the Maldivian people no genuine choice or alternative.
Saif made these remarks while speaking on RaajjeTV's "Noonekey" campaign program.
Saif stated that amending the Constitution should not be treated as a trivial matter for the President's amusement. He emphasized that constitutional changes must be driven by a clear vision, with the potential outcomes transparently explained to the public and finalized only after extensive consultation. Highlighting that the current Constitution is the fundamental framework of the state—meticulously drafted by a Special Majlis following exhaustive debate—Saif described President Muizzu’s attempt to alter it at his own whim as a dangerous precedent.
Regarding the vote scheduled for April 4, Saif stated that the government is attempting to manipulate the public and secure their desired outcome by withholding information and creating a climate of confusion.
Amending the Constitution is not something to be done out of boredom or on a mere whim. It is a process that requires a clear plan, a vision, a deep understanding of the objectives, and a broader perspective. The Constitution was not amended by simply inserting a multitude of rights overnight. It is a document forged through extensive labor, independent debate, and the convening of a Special Majlis—a Constitution shaped by intense deliberations and rigorous arguments within that assembly. It serves as our foundational text for governing this state. The current administration, however, is amending the Constitution whenever it suits their fancy. This is a highly dangerous precedent. In reality, this vote is being cast under duress, leaving no genuine choice. The implications of what is about to happen remain unclear. The consequences of voting "yes" or "no" are unknown. This appears to be a calculated move to mislead the public into endorsing the government's preferred outcome.Mohamed Saif Fathih, the Male' City Council member representing the Galolhu North constituency.
Saif strongly criticized the government's claim that the vote is being held as a cost-cutting measure. He noted that while an election costs approximately 50 million rufiyaa, the government spends 40 million rufiyaa per month solely on the salaries of political appointees.
Furthermore, Saif stated that no one would believe the government's claims of cost-cutting while they are spending 180 million rufiyaa to purchase cars for senior officials. He remarked that such a justification is illogical and would not even be accepted by a child.
Saif further stated that the current democratic system is built upon fundamental rights enshrined within the robust principles of the Constitution. However, he alleged that the government is now working to gradually erode those rights and dismantle various components of the Constitution. Saif warned that if these actions continue, the rights guaranteed under the Constitution will not be preserved for future generations.
