MDP Congress: Members voice concern over en masse passing of Fayyaz's amendments
3 އޮކްޓޯބަރު 2026 | ހޮނިހިރު 16:36Some members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have expressed concern over the proposal to pass sweeping leadership changes in a single en bloc vote, labeling the move as undemocratic. However, Fayyaz Ismail defended the approach, stating that voting on each amendment individually would be practically unfeasible. Despite these internal disagreements, the party congress is proceeding with the deliberations to amend its basic regulation.
Former Chairperson of the MDP, Fayyaz Ismail. | Social Media
Several members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Congress have expressed concerns over a move to pass a series of amendments to the party’s constitution, proposed by former Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, en masse.
The amendments proposed by Fayyaz include significant structural changes to the party's leadership. Key proposals involve the creation of an additional Deputy Chairperson position, restructuring the composition of the Congress, increasing the membership of the National Council, and establishing guidelines for the party’s presidential candidate.
While a significant number of Congress members support these amendments, some have voiced strong dissatisfaction. Specifically, opposition has been raised against the proposal to increase National Council seats based on population and the clauses suggested to abolish certain party positions while centralizing authority within the Chairperson's office. Critics have characterized these moves as an attempt to establish an authoritarian framework within the party. Furthermore, they argued that holding a collective vote on all amendments simultaneously is contrary to democratic principles.
Responding to these concerns, Fayyaz stated that the amendments were submitted through the official channel opened by the party for constitutional revisions. He further noted that based on past experiences, conducting individual votes for every clause during a large-scale gathering like the Congress would be practically difficult and challenging.
Amid these internal disagreements, the proposed changes to the MDP constitution are expected to bring substantial shifts to the party’s future administrative structure.
The 5th MDP Congress commenced on Thursday night and is scheduled to continue through Saturday. Following an investment forum held throughout Friday afternoon, Saturday’s agenda includes the presentation of the Congress report and the official launch of the MDP mobile application.
