Opposition Denied Fair Representation in Parliamentary Committees to Obstruct Work; We Will Not Back Down: Nazil

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) parliamentary group has accused the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) of deliberate obstruction within Parliament, alleging that the government is hindering the opportunities legally afforded to minority and opposition parties in the appointment of members to parliamentary committees.

The statement was made by Ibrahim Nazil, the Member of Parliament for South Hithadhoo, during a press conference held by the MDP Parliamentary Group.

Nazil stated that PNC members have suggested that North  Hithadhoo MP Abdulla Sodiq (Sobe) would only be granted a seat on a significant parliamentary committee after they have monitored his conduct and "performance" on the parliament floor. However, Nazil asserted that Sodiq is under no obligation to conduct himself in parliament according to the preferences or satisfaction of the ruling party members.

Nazil highlighted that, according to parliamentary rules and procedures, the current composition of the Majlis entitles the opposition MDP to seats on two additional committees. However, he noted that the seats currently allocated to them are on the two least active committees with the lowest workloads. Nazil further characterized this as an infringement on the rights of the minority.

Nazil further stated that despite the government holding a parliamentary majority, the ruling party cannot act arbitrarily, emphasizing that opposition members are entitled to specific rights under established procedures. He added that the MDP is unwilling to concede in the face of ongoing harassment against opposition members within Parliament and affirmed that they will continue to advocate for their rights.

"The minority must be given their opportunities; however, what we are witnessing is deliberate obstruction. Therefore, we have no intention of backing down. They cannot simply act as they please; we also have rights that must be upheld within the established regulations."

Ibrahim Nazil, Member of Parliament for the South Hithadhoo constituency

Nazil stated that although it was previously agreed that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) would be granted seats on the Independent Institutions Committee and the Environment Committee, it now appears there are attempts to withhold those opportunities. He further noted that after raising their voices in protest against this move, the entire MDP parliamentary group was removed from the chamber.