Steps are being taken to prevent foreign troops from staying without parliamentary approval
A proposal has been submitted to amend the Constitution to allow foreign troops to stay in the Maldives only with the approval of a majority of the members of the People’s Majlis (Parliament).
The bill to amend the Constitution was submitted to the Majlis on behalf of the government by PNC member for Hulhudhoo constituency, Mohamed Shahid. He proposed to amend Article 251 (c) of the Constitution.
The current article states that no part of the territory of the Maldives shall be used for military purposes by any foreign party without the approval of a majority of the total membership of the People’s Majlis.
The proposed amendment states that no permission shall be given to any foreign party to use any part of the Maldivian territory for military purposes, whether under an agreement or otherwise, without the approval of a majority of the Majlis.
It further states that except for participation in military training exercises under agreements, no permission shall be given for foreign troops to operate in any form in the Maldivian territory for military purposes without the approval of a majority of the total membership of the Majlis.
Before May 10 this year, Indian troops were present in the Maldives. They were personnel who came to operate two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft gifted by India. However, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu sent the troops back after assuming office.
Now these vehicles are being operated by Indian civilians.
