Government submits resolution to Parliament calling for action against opposition parties over alleged illegal activities
The People's Majlis has commenced debate on a resolution aimed at ensuring political party activities align with the Constitution and the Political Parties Act. The resolution highlights concerns that unlawful actions by certain parties are disrupting public order and causing significant hardship to citizens. Consequently, it calls upon relevant authorities to prioritize national interests and take decisive action against those operating outside the legal framework.
Abdul Sattar Mohamed, the People's National Congress (PNC) Member of Parliament for the Holhudhoo constituency. | People's Majlis
The government has submitted a resolution to the People’s Majlis calling for an end to illegal activities conducted by certain political parties in violation of the Political Parties Act, and urging that legal action be taken against those responsible.
During Tuesday's parliamentary sitting, debate proceeded on a resolution introduced by Abdul Sattar Mohamed, the People's National Congress (PNC) member for the Holhudhoo constituency.
The resolution states that while the Constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom of thought, expression, and the right to form and participate in political parties, these rights must be exercised in accordance with the principles of Islam. It further emphasizes that such freedoms must be practiced with respect for the reputation and rights of others, while prioritizing the national interest.
The resolution further noted that illegal activities carried out by political parties are causing significant public hardship and disrupting social stability. Consequently, it calls for an immediate end to such actions and urges that legal measures be taken against those responsible.
The resolution states that Article 27 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of thought and the freedom to express their opinions and ideas, whether orally, in writing, or through any other medium, provided it does not contravene the fundamental tenets of Islam.
Furthermore, while Article 30 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to establish political parties and participate in their activities, Article 33 stipulates that every individual possesses the right to the protection of their name and reputation.
The resolution highlights that Article 67 of the Constitution establishes the rights and freedoms of every individual as inseparable from their responsibilities and duties. It further specifies that it is the responsibility of every citizen to protect and respect the rights and freedoms of others, and to foster harmony and mutual respect among all individuals and communities. Furthermore, the resolution notes that every citizen is mandated to safeguard the sovereignty of the Maldives, uphold national unity, maintain peace and security, and preserve the honor of the nation. It also emphasizes the duty of citizens to promote democratic principles and values, provided they do not contradict the fundamental tenets of Islam.
The resolution states that it is vital for national interest and public order that political parties conduct their activities within the boundaries prescribed by the Constitution and the Political Parties Act. It further notes that some political parties are conducting activities in violation of Article 45 of the Political Parties Act, disrupting public peace and disregarding established legal principles. As these unlawful activities have caused significant hardship for thousands of residents in Malé, the resolution calls upon the relevant state authorities to stop such illegal actions and take legal action against those responsible in accordance with the law.
