19th Majlis held an MDP supermajority, yet Constitution was never amended to serve interests of President or the party: Naseem

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has stated that despite the MDP holding a supermajority in the 19th People’s Majlis during the previous administration, the parliament failed to facilitate the President's agenda or act in the best interests of the party.

Speaking at an MDP rally held in Fuvahmulah City on Friday night, Naseem stated that former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was someone who spent four years working alongside MDP members and other representatives in Parliament to reform the Constitution. However, Naseem noted that unlike the current administration's approach, the former President did not attempt to amend the Constitution whenever he felt like it.

The people made the greatest sacrifice in the effort to reform the Constitution. Naseem questioned the value today of the sacrifices made by citizens who gathered in the galleries, protested outside, advocated from the islands, and traveled to Male' for the cause.

What is the value of our contribution to the creation of this Constitution? What was the worth of the tireless work we did day and night, from morning until evening? When it suits them, they alter the Constitution in just half an hour. This involves numerous fundamental rights granted to the people under Chapter Two. It is because of Chapter Two that we have competitive elections, fundamental rights, freedom of expression, press freedom, the right to travel, and access to water and sanitation; all of these are enshrined within that chapter.

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem

Naseem stated that while the government is attempting to consolidate two elections to strip citizens of their constitutional rights, the current Parliament is also operating solely to benefit President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and the PNC, at the expense of the public interest.

Naseem stated that the PNC is leveraging its majority in the 20th Parliament to act arbitrarily for its own exclusive benefit. He contrasted this with the 19th Parliament, asserting that despite holding a supermajority, the MDP never took action solely for the party's gain. Instead, he emphasized that the previous Parliament prioritized national interests, focusing on ensuring the safety and security of citizens and enhancing the country's economic productivity.

As the presidential election approached, a campaign of blatant lies, fabrications, and misinformation was unleashed. They alleged that our seas had been sold off, claimed that thousands of Indian military personnel were stationed here in secrecy, and accused the government of nepotism in employment, awarding projects to cronies, and reckless spending. I have no desire to dwell on the record of a government brought to power by citizens who, at the time, were swayed by such rhetoric in the hope of a better future.

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem

Naseem stated that merging the two elections would eliminate any mechanism to hold the government accountable for its actions.

Naseem stated that the public will not allow this government to undermine the nation's progress by seizing the hard-earned achievements of others.