Real question of referendum is whether we wish to regress in our democracy; answer must be a resounding 'no': Mausoom

Former Tourism Minister Abdulla Mausoom has stated that the real question at the heart of the referendum scheduled for April 4 is whether citizens wish to see a regression in democracy, asserting that the public must answer with a definitive "no."

Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Noonekey" program, Mausoom stated that the referendum is being conducted by a government that has failed to provide any benefit to the public, and asserted that the vote would bring no positive outcome for the people.

Mausoom further noted that the government is conducting this vote alongside another election, emphasizing that such a move offers no real benefit to the public.

Mausoom stated that any campaign must convey clear messages to the public and present a formal manifesto. In this regard, he noted that presidential and parliamentary elections are inherently distinct in nature.

This is a vote being called by a government that has failed to deliver any meaningful benefits to the people. Consequently, no good can come from this process. This is especially true when it is being bundled with another election—a move that is inherently deceptive. Nothing positive can result from an action carried out in such a manner.

Former Tourism Minister Abdulla Mausoom

Mausoom stated that the government's objective is to create confusion by merging the two elections. He further noted that the fundamental question in this vote is whether the citizens wish to see a regression in democracy.

Therefore, Mausoom stated that the answer to that question must be no.

Mausoom further stated that the public truly benefits from holding frequent elections. He noted that this is also the primary way to bring progress and development to the islands.

Mausoom also criticized the details included in the President's decree to hold the referendum. In this regard, he stated that the decree contains numerous inconsistencies.