The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has argued before the Supreme Court that the recent constitutional amendment, which disqualifies MPs who switch parties, undermines the power of the people.
During today’s hearing on a petition seeking to annul the amendment, MDP lawyer Anas Abdul Sattar stated that the change contradicts the spirit and structure of the Constitution. He emphasized that the amendment strips voters of their authority, as it removes their elected representatives without their consent.
“The Constitution grants the power to amend, not to break it entirely,” Anas said, underscoring the MDP’s stance that the amendment disrupts democratic principles.
Meanwhile, state lawyers defended the amendment, asserting that it was passed in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Constitution.
The amendment, which disqualifies MPs upon switching parties or being expelled, was passed by Parliament and ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on November 20 last year.
During today’s hearing on a petition seeking to annul the amendment, MDP lawyer Anas Abdul Sattar stated that the change contradicts the spirit and structure of the Constitution. He emphasized that the amendment strips voters of their authority, as it removes their elected representatives without their consent.
“The Constitution grants the power to amend, not to break it entirely,” Anas said, underscoring the MDP’s stance that the amendment disrupts democratic principles.
Meanwhile, state lawyers defended the amendment, asserting that it was passed in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Constitution.
The amendment, which disqualifies MPs upon switching parties or being expelled, was passed by Parliament and ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on November 20 last year.
