As the dust settles following Tuesday's parliamentary elections in the Maldives, questions arise regarding the fate of government-backed independent candidates who secured seats and subsequently joined the ruling Progressive National Congress (PNC). Concerns about potential repercussions under the Anti-Defection Act have been addressed by the Election Commission, providing clarity on the matter.
Election Commission member Hassan Zakariyya has affirmed that elected members of Parliament will not forfeit their seats due to party affiliations or changes until they are officially sworn in. This clarification comes amidst the backdrop of six government-backed independent candidates winning seats and subsequently aligning with the ruling PNC.
Zakariyya emphasized that the Anti-Defection Act will only come into effect once members are sworn in and commence their term.
Former Vice President of the commission, Ismail Habeeb, echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the Anti-Defection Act would be enforceable upon members taking their oath of office. While the Act mandates MPs to vacate their seats upon changing parties, it remains ambiguous on whether they would indeed lose their parliamentary positions.
Critics, including legal experts, have raised concerns about the constitutionality and coherence of the Anti-Defection Act, citing potential contradictions within the legislation. Habeeb highlighted these discrepancies, underscoring the need for further examination and clarification on the matter.
Election Commission member Hassan Zakariyya has affirmed that elected members of Parliament will not forfeit their seats due to party affiliations or changes until they are officially sworn in. This clarification comes amidst the backdrop of six government-backed independent candidates winning seats and subsequently aligning with the ruling PNC.
Zakariyya emphasized that the Anti-Defection Act will only come into effect once members are sworn in and commence their term.
Former Vice President of the commission, Ismail Habeeb, echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the Anti-Defection Act would be enforceable upon members taking their oath of office. While the Act mandates MPs to vacate their seats upon changing parties, it remains ambiguous on whether they would indeed lose their parliamentary positions.
Critics, including legal experts, have raised concerns about the constitutionality and coherence of the Anti-Defection Act, citing potential contradictions within the legislation. Habeeb highlighted these discrepancies, underscoring the need for further examination and clarification on the matter.
