Joint Opposition calls on apex court to make definitive decision on dismissed lawmakers

Maldives’ allied opposition parties working for ‘pro-democratic reform’ have called on the Supreme Court to make a definitive decision on the status of twelve lawmakers previously said to have been dismissed.

Representatives of the party said during a press conference at the opposition Jumhooree Party headquarters in capital city Malé that the lawmakers not being allowed to participate in parliamentary sittings is a heavy hindrance.

While the Supreme Court’s word had been the basis on which the Elections Commission made its decision to dismiss the lawmakers, another ruling had reinstated them.

However, since then an anti-defection law – which was passed with the alleged intention to deliberately target said lawmakers – has been in effect. The apex court has also validated the law.

The Elections Commission announced on Monday that they are to hold by-elections for constituencies represented by said lawmakers.