The Parliamentary Group (PG) Leader of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Mohamed Aslam has expressed his willingness to assume the position of Speaker of the Parliament if MDP PG decides to appoint him. Aslam's remarks come at a time when the Parliament is making preparations to initiate a no-confidence motion against Speaker Mohamed Nasheed.
Having served in the Parliament for four consecutive terms, Aslam is one of the longest-serving parliamentarians. The MDP PG held a press conference regarding the decision to remove Nasheed from the position. During the press conference, a journalist inquired about Aslam's interest in the Speaker's post. Aslam responded by stating that he would discuss the matter of becoming the Speaker when the position becomes vacant. He further expressed his readiness to assume the role if the MDP PG decides to appoint him.
Aslam, who currently serves as the MDP PG leader, has already expressed his intention to run for the 19th session of the ongoing Parliament. Back then, President Nasheed proposed Aslam's name for the position, while President Solih nominated Hassan Afeef. However, MDP PG has been unable to reach a consensus on the appointment of the Speaker of Parliament due to differing opinions. It was then decided to appoint Mohamed Nasheed as the Speaker.
MDP PG has decided to submit a no-confidence motion against Nasheed with the majority of members present at the PG meeting voting in favour of submitting the motion. As such, 36 of the 44 members voted in favour and the MDP PG intends to gain more signatures to submit the motion. The decision was reached due to concerns regarding Speaker Nasheed's alleged violation of the Constitution and parliamentary regulations.