The administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has consistently adhered to constitutional and legal standards, without committing any acts that contravene the law, Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla has asserted. In a recent interview with PSM News' 'Baabu' programme, the speaker highlighted the significant achievements of the parliament's last session for the year, highlighting the numerous works accomplished.
One of the most significant accomplishments, according to Speaker Abdulla, was the amendment of the Constitution. He characterised these amendments as initiatives aimed at further empowering the people. Following the constitutional amendments, public discourse, particularly among those opposed to the administration, predominantly focused on issues related to floor crossing in parliament, he observed. Nonetheless, he added that the constitutional amendments addressed far more crucial issues.
One of the key changes implemented is the requirement for parliamentary endorsement prior to permitting foreign military operations within the country, said Speaker Abdulla, adding that this measure represents a significant effort by the administration to further empower the people. The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) remains committed to upholding constitutional supremacy and restoring the respect that was diminished under previous administrations, he said.
The speaker also reiterated that the President Dr Muizzu administration has adhered to constitutional and legal frameworks, refraining from any actions that could be considered unconstitutional or in breach of the law. "There is no basis for [the opposition's] claims regarding the Constitution. Since the PNC government assumed power and the 20th parliament was enacted, no unconstitutional actions have been committed," he stated, referencing the recent opposition rally held under the banner 'in defence of the Constitution.'
Speaker Abdulla also criticised the main opposition, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), and previous administrations led by the party. He accused the first MDP-led government of overstepping legislative powers and undertaking actions without prior parliamentary approval, which he deemed unconstitutional. He further alleged that the second MDP-led government engaged in similar practices.
Speaker Abdulla went on to state that, despite the opposition's accusations of constitutional and legal violations by the Dr Muizzu administration, the administration has solely undertaken actions aimed at protecting and empowering the people and their rights. His remarks coincide with President Dr Muizzu's defence of the constitutional amendments introduced by his administration. Addressing the residential community of Mathiveri, Alifu Alifu Atoll, on 8 December, President Dr Muizzu asserted that the constitutional amendments were clearly designed to empower the people, provided that political bias is set aside.
The Sixth Amendment to the Constitution, which also prohibits the deployment of foreign troops on Maldivian territory for military purposes, except for participation in approved military exercises with the consent of a parliamentary majority, was ratified by the president on 20 November.