President Muizzu is continuously working to empower the people – Muhtaz

Deputy Ambassador of Maldives to Singapore, Muhtaz Muhsin, has stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is continuously working to empower the people.

Muhtaz, who previously held the position of Prosecutor General, made this statement in a post on X (formerly Twitter) regarding the government’s proposed constitutional amendment that would result in the loss of parliamentary seats for members who change parties.

Muhsin said that those who oppose empowering the people are now being exposed. He stated that President Muizzu is continuously working to give the power back to the people, and the proposed constitutional amendment is evidence of this.

The bill proposing amendments to the constitution includes four main changes. One amendment is to require a two-thirds majority approval from the Parliament before making any changes to the Maldivian territory.

The most significant amendment in the bill introduces two new conditions under which parliamentary members can lose their seats. These conditions are: if an elected member switches to another political party during the term of the parliament, or if an independent member signs with a political party.

The bill also proposes to grant additional powers to the President. This includes giving the President the authority to determine major state policies, provide directives to government institutions, and formulate national development plans and visions.

The proposed amendments also state that foreign military personnel can only be stationed for military purposes with the approval of a parliamentary majority. It also allows foreign military personnel to participate in non-military activities and training exercises under agreements.

The first law that resulted in the loss of parliamentary seats for members who change parties was enacted during the presidency of former President Abdulla Yameen. However, when MDP came to power, they repealed that law. Nevertheless, towards the end of the last term of the People’s Majlis, MDP reintroduced a similar law.