Due to the way certain laws are framed, residents of rural islands remain shackled: MP Sameer
During the debate on the proposed amendment to the Citizenship Act, Thoddoo MP Sameer emphasized the urgent need to address the systemic deprivation of rights faced by rural island residents. He called for legislative reforms to eliminate discrimination based on island of origin, ensuring that all citizens have equitable access to public services. Highlighting the ongoing hardships experienced by the public, the MP underscored the critical importance of passing the bill to provide a definitive solution to these challenges.
Thoddoo MP Hussain Sameer delivers a speech during a sitting of the People's Majlis. | RaajjeMV
Member of Parliament for the Thoddoo constituency, Hussain Sameer, has stated that the current legislative framework in the Maldives has effectively shackled citizens living in rural island communities.
During the debate on the amendment to the Citizenship Act, introduced by MDP Member for North Galolhu, Mohamed Ibrahim, MP Sameer stated that the current structure of certain laws has effectively shackled island residents, depriving them of numerous fundamental rights. He further emphasized that these legal constraints have forced citizens to endure unnecessary hardships and burdens that they should not have to face.
MP Sameer stated that this situation must change and that amendments to the Residency Act are necessary.
We are well aware of the constraints imposed upon our rural communities, whether by those in power or through the very laws enacted by our legislature. We have endured the deprivation of numerous fundamental rights and have shouldered countless hardships that our parents should never have had to face. When we look at the composition of this Parliament today, where a significant majority represents these rural islands, I cannot accept that such laws should remain unamended or that we should continue to live under these shackles. We are heartened today by the fact that even the Honorable Speaker of this Parliament hails from one of our outlying islands.Hussain Sameer, Member of Parliament for the Thoddoo constituency.
MP Sameer stated that Members of Parliament must serve all citizens equally, without regard to specific islands, individuals, or political affiliations, and that legislation should be drafted with the same principle of impartiality. He further noted that although members are elected from specific constituencies, they should not represent a single island exclusively, but must instead work in the interest of all citizens.
However, in the provision of public services, individuals are being deprived of numerous rights simply because of their affiliation with a specific island or location.
MP Sameer urged the acceptance and passage of the proposed amendment to the Citizenship Act, emphasizing that it is essential to resolve such issues.
