Government submits resolution to committee calling for action against opposition parties, alleging they are engaging in illegal activities
The Parliament has referred a resolution calling for action against political parties engaging in unlawful activities to the Committee on Independent Institutions, following a vote of 41 members. The resolution emphasizes that the rights to freedom of expression and political activity must be exercised with respect for Islamic principles and national interests. Furthermore, it highlights that illegal activities by certain parties are causing public distress and undermining community peace and security.
Abdulsattar Mohamed, the People's National Congress (PNC) Member of Parliament for the Holhudhoo constituency. | People's Majlis
The Parliament has accepted a government-sponsored resolution calling for an end to illegal activities conducted by certain political parties in violation of the Political Parties Act and urging legal action against those responsible.
During Monday's People's Majlis sitting, a resolution submitted by PNC Member for Holhudhoo constituency, Abdul Sattar Mohamed, was accepted with a majority of 41 votes. Eight members voted against the resolution. Following the vote, the resolution has been forwarded to the Committee on Independent Institutions for further review.
The resolution states that while the Constitution grants 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 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 stipulates that every citizen has the right to establish political parties and participate in their activities, Article 33 of the Constitution also guarantees every individual the right to the protection of their name and reputation.
The resolution highlights that under Article 67 of the Constitution, the rights and freedoms granted to every individual are inseparable from their corresponding responsibilities and duties. It further stipulates 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. Additionally, the resolution notes the constitutional obligation of citizens to safeguard the sovereignty, national unity, peace, and security of the Maldives, to uphold the nation’s honor, and to promote democratic principles and values in a manner consistent with the fundamental tenets of Islam.
The resolution states that it is vital for national interest and public peace 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 order and acting contrary to established legal principles. As thousands of Male' residents are forced to endure the hardships caused by these unlawful political activities, 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.
