Former President Mohamed Nasheed and former Minister Fayyaz Ismail have proposed significant “hybrid” structural changes to the Maldives’ system of governance. According to the proposal, the roles of the Head of State and the Head of Government would be separated into two distinct positions. While the Head of Government would be elected through a direct popular vote by the citizens, the Head of State would be elected via an electoral college consisting of the Parliament and local councils. Fayyaz emphasized that this is not a traditional parliamentary system, but rather a bespoke model specifically designed to suit the Maldivian context.
Under this proposed framework, several key reforms are introduced, including mechanisms to control the number of parliamentary seats, requiring a public referendum for the removal of judges, and mandating public consultation on major financial matters. President Nasheed expressed his intent to seek MDP’s endorsement for these reforms. Furthermore, he indicated his support for Fayyaz to assume the role of Head of Government, while expressing his own interest in the position of Head of State. Nasheed also called upon the current administration to engage in discussions regarding these proposed constitutional changes.
