Maldivian people are the nation's final line of defense, and merging two elections would allow that line to be breached: Ali Hussain
Legal expert Ali Hussain stated that holding presidential and parliamentary elections simultaneously is inconsistent with the principles of a presidential system and warned that such a move would undermine the fundamental purpose of the elections.
Legal counsel Ali Hussain speaking during RaajjeTV's "Noonekey" program. | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
Legal expert Ali Hussain has stated that the Maldivian people serve as the nation's final line of defense, asserting that consolidating two elections would create a vulnerability in that defense.
He made these remarks while speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Noonekey" program.
He stated that all systems for ensuring accountability within the country's authorities and institutions have now failed. Ali Hussain noted that since independent institutions have also collapsed, the only remaining opportunity for accountability is the citizens' right to vote. He emphasized that this opportunity must not be allowed to be taken away.
Ali Hussain has stated that in this modern era, decision-making must be data-driven. However, he noted that the current administration's "2.0" approach fails to follow this principle. Specifically, he pointed out that there is no data to substantiate the claims regarding the alleged losses incurred by holding parliamentary and presidential elections separately. He further argued that the concerns of the people are most clearly heard during election periods, suggesting that more frequent elections are actually beneficial for the public. Ali Hussain concluded that there is no factual basis for the argument that merging the two elections is necessary to ensure national stability or to attract foreign investors.
"Decisions must be based on facts and data. How many citizens actually asked to combine the two elections? Who was truly concerned about this issue? The people are talking about the lack of water and sewerage systems. They are complaining because their needs are not being met. These issues can only be addressed by holding the elections," said Ali Hussain.
Ali Hussain has stated that merging the presidential and parliamentary elections would undermine the fundamental purpose of those elections. He further noted that combining any other election with a presidential election is inconsistent with the characteristics of a presidential system.
