Regulations to be amended to exempt MNDF from providing security to former presidents during protests
The Parliament’s 241 Committee has decided to amend regulations to exempt the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) from providing security to former presidents while they participate in protests, a move reportedly made at the MNDF's request. While some critics view this decision as a government attempt to obstruct the political activities of former heads of state, it has also raised significant concerns regarding their personal safety and security.
The three former presidents: President Nasheed, President Solih, and President Yameen. | Mohamed Sharuhaan Waheed
The Parliament's Committee on Security Services (241 Committee) has decided to amend regulations to stipulate that the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) is not required to provide security to former presidents while they are participating in protests.
The decision was reached by a majority vote of the Committee on Security Services during a closed-door session.
A member of the committee present at the time informed RaajjeMV that the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has formally requested Parliament via a letter to amend the regulations governing the provision of MNDF VIP security services.
Consequently, the proposal was submitted to the Parliamentary Committee on Security Services by the Member of Parliament for the Kelaa constituency, Abdulla Shareef. The motion was passed by a majority of the members present at the committee meeting. The committee has approved an amendment to the regulations, stipulating that the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) is not required to provide security to former presidents while they are participating in protests.
Three committee members voted against the amendment to these regulations. The dissenting members were Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, MP for Hanimaadhoo constituency; Mohamed Nazim, MP for Maafannu North constituency; and Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, MP for Thulhaadhoo constituency.
Critics argue that this amendment is a calculated move to obstruct former presidents from engaging in political activities and speaking out against the government's perceived failures. Notably, the push for this legislative change coincides with the recent decision by three former presidents—Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Mohamed Nasheed, and Abdulla Yameen—to collaborate in their political efforts.
Observers have noted that while former presidents in every nation are entitled to specific privileges and security protections, there are growing concerns that politically motivated decisions regarding these entitlements could lead to adverse long-term consequences.
Furthermore, the committee decided to amend the regulations in this manner without any consideration for past events, including the previous terrorist attack targeting former President Mohamed Nasheed.
