MP Didi: Parliament Passed Bills Detrimental to the Public

Ahmed Didi, the Member of Parliament for the Maradhoo constituency, has characterized the recently concluded parliamentary term as a period during which legislation detrimental and burdensome to the public was passed.

Speaking at a press conference held by MDP parliamentarians on Thursday, MP Didi stated that the Maldivian economy is sustained by the tourism industry. He noted that the current legislative amendments requiring the exchange of 40 percent of foreign currency earnings would force businesses to face significant financial losses.

President Muizzu has previously stated that every bill submitted to Parliament is finalized only after extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders. Highlighting this, MP Didi noted that the government had failed to hold any discussions with tourism industry professionals regarding this matter, adding that industry stakeholders are opposed to the proposed legislative amendment.

The President has stated in various forums that every bill submitted to Parliament undergoes an extensive process involving thorough consultations with stakeholders. However, it has become evident that this is not the case, as industry leaders have issued a press release confirming that no meaningful dialogue took place with them. Furthermore, they have rejected the government's current proposal, asserting that the industry cannot function under such terms.

Ahmed Didi

The Member highlighted that despite processing Telegraphic Transfers (TTs), businesses only receive 20 percent of their foreign exchange requirements through formal channels. Didi noted that tourism industry stakeholders are forced to source the remaining 80 percent through informal market means.

Highlighting the amendments made to the Decentralization Act, MP Didi stated that these changes would lead to a complete erosion of public empowerment. MP Didi further asserted that the amendment was designed to allow the President and cabinet members to seize public land at their discretion and at any given time.

MP Didi stated that the current government-aligned members in Parliament are working to restructure the system under the premise that all powers originate from and remain with the leader. However, MP Didi emphasized that according to the Constitution of the Maldives, all powers originate from and remain vested in the people.

The People's Majlis has passed an amendment during the current session requiring tourism businesses to exchange 40 percent of their foreign currency earnings into local currency, a measure aimed at stabilizing the exchange rate. Furthermore, the Parliament has approved a legislative change granting the government the authority to reclaim lands under the jurisdiction of local councils at its discretion.