Law changed to bring in criminals: MP Eva

Member of Parliament for Galolhu North Constituency Eva Abdullah levied severe accusations against the Government, stating that laws were being changed to create an environment of theft, graft and embezzlement in all ranks of the Government.

Eva made the statement in the Parliament session debating the Bill on revisions to eligibility of candidates for Local Council Elections. The proposed amendments allow individuals with criminal records for offenses such as theft, drugs cases, child abuse to contest in the elections.

Speaking in session, Eva noted that Local Council Elections had been postponed on several occasions, on the account that ruling Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) had claimed they were not prepared for the Elections. She said MDP was prepared for the Elections.

“We’re not shocked that such a law is introduced that allows more individuals to enter the Government that will support a leader who said that theft is a part of human nature,” MP Eva said.

She said the Government was gearing up for Elections, evident in the way they were arresting opposition candidates and members. MP Eva noted that in the past 24 hours, five activists from Ari Atoll were arrested along with Council Vice President, adding that a case was filed against Addu City Mayor Abdullah Sodiq over an incident in 2011.

“If MDP strategy is door to door campaigns, then President Yameen’s strategy is to go on door to door, move people to Dhoonidhoo. When MDP says that we’re preparing a manifesto, President Yameen draws up litigation papers. When MDP holds a rally, President Yameen begins trials against them. MDP’s campaign rule book says we need to begin our work close to the public, President Yameen’s rule book instructs to incarcerate, raise charges against them, sentence them, change laws. We know how to contest Elections in this manner. All the 600 members who contest on MDP ticket clearly know that this is going up to Dhoonidhoo jail. This is clear on them, they are prepared for this, it’s an easy endeavor on MDP. When we are told to go vote, after all our candidates and electors are jailed, we’re prepared for that, when they are acting out, we’re not worried, we’re not scared. For us it’s a call for action,” Eva said.