IDP propose Qasim as Alliance candidate

Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) has proposed Finance Minister Qasim Ibrahim as the presidential candidate of the Alliance to compete against president Gayoom in the forthcoming presidential elections scheduled for later this year. The proposal came at the meeting of the Alliance held yesterday.

Speaking at the meeting President of IDP said that if the Alliance is considering to have a candidate out side the Alliance then the candidate must have the capacity and ability to defeat President Gayoom and that IDP proposes Finance Minister Qasim Ibrahim to that candidate. Umar also proposed that if candidate is to be elected within the Alliance then a primary election should be held. Umar informed that although a decision was not reached at yesterday’s meeting, the Alliance did not reject IDP’s proposals. Further Miadhu Daily also learnt that MDP president Dr. Munavavar informed the Alliance that the matter of Alliance being represented by candidate outside MDP needs to be addressed first at the party’s National Council.

Attempts made by Miadhu Daily to contact the Spokesperson of the Alliance Dr. Ahmed Shaheed to obtain more information on the meeting proved futile. However speaking to Miadhu Daily on an earlier occasion Dr. Shaheed has said that to have an outside candidate was not acceptable.

Leader of Social Liberal Party (SLP) Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) speaking at a news conference has said that the comments made some politicians in the name of Alliance were not true and that the Alliance has not reached a decision on its candidate.

Speaking at the news conference Ibra condemned that the claims made by some politicians, in the name of the Alliance, that the next government would be formed by a specific party. He also said that those claims that international community prefers a single candidate to represent the alliance are also simply not true.

According to Ibra the objective of the Alliance was to introduce some changes to the political arena but that what he is now seeing is that some politicians attempting to achieve other objectives rather than what the Alliance was established for. He said if any one of the five which forms the Alliance breaks away then it will no longer be called an Alliance.

HRCM Will Not Observe Presidential Elections

The Human Rights Commission (HRCM) has decided not to send observers to the Maldives’ first multi-party presidential elections, expected later this year.

Commissioner Mariyam Azra Ahmed said the decision had been taken because “other human rights commissions do not observe elections”.

The HRCM sent ten observers to last year’s referendum on form of government, in which Maldivians chose a presidential over a parliamentary system. It judged the referendum to be “generally fair”.

Former foreign minister Dr Ahmed Shaheed, who recently set up the organisation Maldives Election Watch to “be vigilant over any moves to prevent free and fair elections”, said the decision was “very disappointing and very strange”.

The HRCM will be involved to the extent of “see[ing] that all individuals receive the right to vote,” said Azra. But the nature of its involvement will not be determined until June.

Assistant director general Mohamed Tholal, of the Elections Commission, said the body had not yet invited any observers to attend the elections, as a date has not been set.

Recently passed transitional material in the constitution in progress specifies elections must be held by 10 October 2008, though the elections commission – due to become independent within 30 days of ratification of the constitution – must set a date.

But the foreign ministry has invited international bodies such as the European Union (EU) to observe, with the EU pledging a “technical team” of up to four members, and the Commonwealth saying details of its involvement have not yet been confirmed.

The HRCM’s verdict on last August’s referendum was that the poll had been “generally fair,” despite claims by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) that the vote was rigged.

In its press release on the referendum, the HRCM said “few complaints of bribing, intimidation, use of influence and other such cases in breach of the regulations… were received.”

But it also said there were areas in need of improvement, such as “a more open and transparent approach...during the process of casting and counting the ballots”, and the “involve[ment of] all political parties”.

Before it became independent under the Human Rights Commission Act, the HRCM judged parliamentary elections held in January 2005 to be “not in general free, fair or without undue influence”, though its findings were dismissed by the Maldivian government at that time.

The HRCM has now been “advised” election observation does not fall within its mandate, according to Azra.

Ibra to commence campaign visits to atolls

Leader of Social Liberal Party (SLP) Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) who has launched his presidential campaign at ceremony held at Dharubaaruge last March has said that he will commence his campaign trips to atolls on the 4 th of next month. Ibra made the statement speaking at a news conference held at newsroom “Fansavees” of Dharubaargue.

Ibra said that he will initially be visiting northern atolls and that he will be returning after visiting all the inhabited islands of the northern atolls. He said before returning he will pass on his message to the people. He said he is starting the after completion of all the work at the Drafting Committee as promised.

Leader of Social Liberal Party Ibra said that no body can win any election without a campaign. Responding to comments of some parties that campaigning is being carried out in violation of pertinent regulations Ibra said if it is an offense then the matter should be taken to courts and that he was ready for it.

Dr. Hassan & Anni to represent Alliance

Reliable sources confirm that the National Unity Alliance is bringing out former Attorney General Dr. Hassan Saeed and former chairperson of MDP Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) who won the party’s presidential primary on the 25 of this month as Alliance’s candidates for the forthcoming presidential elections scheduled for later this year.

A person having connections with Alliance and well acquainted with the thinking of the Alliance informed that although no official decisions has been reached, an understanding has been reached between Anni and Dr. Hassan Saeed. According to the agreement Dr. Hassan Saeed is going to be the presidential candidate of the Alliance and MDP presidential candidate Anni will be the running mate reports the person. Attempts made by Maidhu Daily to confirm the story by contacting either of the candidate or the Spokesperson of the Alliance Dr. Shaheed proved unsuccessful.

However Umar Naseer leader of Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) one of the parties forming the alliance said that so far no discussion has been held on the subject. He said however a meeting has been scheduled for today. He also said the candidates mentioned by the reliable source were not acceptable.

“No discussions has been held on the subject of candidates, however there is a meeting scheduled for today, the pair mentioned in the information received to Miadhu Daily is not acceptable to IDP” said Umar Naseer President of IDP.

Despite Umar’s views the reliable source confirmed that although some parties within the alliance may not agree on the pair, they will be coming out to stand presidential elections with the other parties that agree on them and that the pair will be seen in the presidential race.

The question now is will the pair, Dr. Hassan and Anni be accepted by the Maldivian people and will they have the capacity to defeat President Gayoom who has been in power for the last 3 decades. Many consider Dr. Hassan as relatively new but capable politician and Anni as a well experienced political activist.

However supporters of President Gayyom say that the President Gayoom has the capacity and experience to defeat anybody that challenge him. What ever it may be the next presidential election is certainly going to be very competitive.

Past actions was based on informed decisions - Anni

Presidential Candidate of Maldivian Democratic Party Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) has revealed that as a politician he was fully aware of what he was doing and what ever he did in the past was carried out with the advice and guidance of other well experienced sources. Anni made the statement speaking on HFM “Jadhalu” (challenge) program when asked when asked whether his actions were based on informed decisions in the past.

Speaking on Jadhalu program of HFM Anni said that if one is to look back there is always the chance to feel that something could have been done better but that his past actions were always based on well informed decisions and that he was fully aware of what was doing at all times. He further said that there is simply no reason for anybody to believe that some of his actions were done unknowingly. When asked by a listener whether he believed that MDP primary elections was conducted as per democratic principles Anni replied that following established election procedures means following democratic principles.

In response to the claims that in the recent MDP primary election held last Friday some supporters were actively seeking support for a specific candidate while the election was going on Anni said that the election regulation do not state when the campaign should be stopped and that some members are finding it difficult to accept it the way t results turned out. When asked whether he believed that the rally of November 10, 2007 which called for the completion of constitutional reform was a success for him against MDP parliamentary group, Anni said that it was a success for the entire party.

He said when MDP declared that the constitution to be completed by November 10, Majlis endorsed to complete the constitutional reform by 30 November. He further said it was only after the rally that Majlis agreed on a transitional process. When asked whether there was any legal restriction that would prevent him from running for presidency later in the year Anni replied that he do not believe that there was any. He said some constitutional experts as well as the president of the Religious Council of MDP are of the opinion that he has not committed a crime that would prevent him standing elections.

When asked what was the secret of his success in the presidential primary Anni replied that 50% of his success can be attributed to his stand on the Alliance. He also said other reasons for his victory was his long and hard struggle to introduce reform without losing focus and his scientific style of campaigning.

Alliance candidate need not be from MDP- Umar

Umar Naseer, President of Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) as well as the party’s presidential candidate has said that the candidate to represent the national Unity Alliance (NUA) does not necessarily have to be from the Alliance. Referring to statements from some MDP officials that the candidate to represent the Alliance has to be MDP Candidate Umar said that the alliance candidate does not necessarily have to be Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) or Dr. Hassan Saeed. He further said if the Alliance agrees on a candidate out side the Alliance who has the capacity to defeat the President Gayoom in the forthcoming presidential elections then all the parties and organizations forming the alliance will have to accept it.

“The Alliance candidate does not have to be Anni or Dr. Hassan or even me, if the Alliance agrees on a candidate outside the Alliance who has the capacity and capability to defeat President Gayoom then it has to be accepted. Isn’t that democracy” said Umar. In addition Umar said that it should not be the intention of the Alliance to seek the support for candidate of a specific party but the Allaince should be concentrating on electing a capable and a strong candidate who has the capacity to defeat President Gayoom. He further said even MDP should not entertain that concept and that the Alliance has no obligation to agree on MDP candidate.

No decision will be taken without Munavvar’s advice - Anni

Speaking at kalaafaanu School immediately after the release of the preliminary results of MDP presidential Primary Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) who won the presidential primary by a landslide majority said that he will not make any decision with first consulting the party President Dr. Mohamed Munavvar.

Anni who has a comfortable lead in the preliminary results said that he fully supports the exemplary manner and example shown by the other 2 candidates. He also assured the members that he would easily win the forthcoming presidential elections. He further said he has no doubts of Dr. Munavvar’s support and confidence. He also thanked Reeco Moosa Manik for his hard work to complete the constitutional reform. He also thanked and welcomed Maria Ahmed Didi who just won the party chairpersonship.

Addressing members Anni said MDP has now come of age and that the coming November will usher an MDP government.

Speaking at Kalaafaanu School Dr. Munavvar said he was satisfied with the way the elections went and welcomed both Anni and Maria for their success in the elections. He also offered his gratitude to all those who supported him and assured the members his desire to continue with managing the party as its President.

Reeco Moosa Manik who contested in the primary said that he can only sleep properly after removing President Gayoom from power. He thanked Dr. Munavvar and Nasheed (Anni) who both contested in the presidential primary. He welcomed Maria and congratulated her success. Offering his gratitude to all the members who supported him Reeco Moosa Manik called on members to cast their votes in the forthcoming presidential elections in the same manner as they just did.

Both Maria and Nazim who contested in election for party chairpersonship thanked all members who voted for them.

Maria said MDP is now entering a new phase of democracy.

Mariya is the new Chairperson of MDP

Male' - 02:45 - Mariya has won the MDP chairperson's election and her contender Nazim has congratulated Mariya over the resounding victory she attained.

Anni wins the MDP presidential primary

Male' - 02:51 - Anni thanked his contenders for their professional campaigns and said that their aim had always been to bring democracy. "This is a win for all of us. We are all winners," Anni said in his acceptance speech. Anni also said that he looks forward to working with Dr. Munavvar, who is the President of MDP. He also paid tribute to Reeko Moosa and congratulated him for his efforts to bring democracy to the Maldives. Specifically Anni highlighted Moosa's courageous performances in the parliament. Anni also thanked Gogo Latheef for his services to the party. He also thanked the media for their effort in covering the election and concluded his speech by stating that Gayyoom will be replaced.

Male' - 02:49 - Contenders Dr. Munavvar and Reeko Moosa have conceded defeat gracefully and congratulated the winner, Anni. Both candidates thanked their supporters and all those who participated in the election.

Male' - 02:45 - According to the initial votes counted and exit polls, MDP's presidential primary winner will be Mohamed Nasheed, Anni, the former chairperson of MDP and founding member of the party. After nearly 91 of the ballot boxes counted, Anni has reportedly secured more than 65%, whilst the runner up Dr. Munavvar managed to secure 26% and Moosa secured 9%. These results are the initial count. The official count announced at around 2:00am are as follows: Anni 3275 (69%), Munavvar 718 (21%) and Moosa 528 (10%). The trend is set to continue and as per the official preliminary results, Anni performed extremely well in almost all areas, including Addu Atoll. Official preliminary results are expected within the next few hours according to election officials.

Counting is continues initial results gives Anni a clear lead

Male' - 22:15 - Counting of the boxes in Male' at Kalaafaanu School has begun. Exit figures indicate that more than 2641 votes were cast there.

Male' - 22:00 - Counting of the votes has begun and preliminary results for some 15 boxes have been announced already. Currently, Anni leads with 411 votes, to Dr. Munavvar 129 and Reeko Moosa 86.

Preliminary results to be revealed within 18 hours - MDP

According to Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) the preliminary results of the 2 party elections held today (presidential primary election and party chairpersonship election) will be released within 18 hours and final results will be made public within 14 days.

MDP had earlier revealed that 30,000 ballot papers have been printed. According to the party the number of eligible voters for the 2 elections are 20,958 and the number of valid proxy are 238. A total of 81 ballot boxes have been positioned in 80 islands.

“Ballot boxes will be positioned in 6 resorts , 3 industrial sites will also be provided with ballot boxes, 7 ballot boxes for Male’ residents,20 boxes will placed for islanders residing in Male’, total number of ballot boxes will be provided 117 and total number of ballots released so far is 8650” revealed MDP.

MDP informed that in Male’ ballot boxes will be positioned at Kalaafaanu School and that a box for each of the 4 wards of Male’ will placed at Kalaafaanu School. MDP further informed that a box for those members on Special Register of Male’ Municipality will also be placed at Kalaafaanu School in addition a box at Villingili and one box at Hulhumale’ is to be positioned.

According to Dr. Ibrahim Didi the election scheduled to commence at 1400 hours this afternoon would be held in a manner which would be open and transparent. He said the election held at a cost of Rf.400, 000 can challenge the national elections organized by the Elections Commissioner.


When asked by a member of press as to why names of deceased people are included in the eligible voter list, Dr. Didi replied that MDP cannot be blamed as these names were provided by the Commissioner. MDP also revealed that 135 reporters will act as observers. Further MDP informed that white ballot papers will be used for presidential primary elections and yellow will be for party chairperson.

Further MDP informed that white ballot papers will be used for presidential primary elections and yellow will be for party chairperson. MDP presidential primaries are contested by 3 candidates, namely party president Dr. Mohamed Munavvar , Ricco Moosa Manik MP for Laamu Atoll and former chairperson of the party Moahmed Nasheed (Anni). Party Chairpersonship is being contested by Maria Ahmed Didi and Bounty Nazim.

MDP to be restructured to reflect presidential system - Maria

Member of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) parliamentary group as well as MP for Kaafu Atoll, Maria Ahmed Didi, competing to win the MDP Chairpersonship has declared that certain changes will be necessary to the structure of the party due to the adoption of the presidential system of government by the people. She said so while speaking to members of the press at a news conference held yesterday at the newsroom “Fansavees” of Dharubaaruge.

Maria said that there were many tasks that need to be implemented when facing the powerful position of Chairperson of the main opposition party with a strong tradition of internal democracy. She said among the tasks that needs to carried out are the changes to the party structure due to the adoption of the presidential system of government.

“Changes to party structure are necessary due to the adoption of the presidential system of government, changes will come through the party system” said Maria.

Maria said she is contesting party chairpersonship with a strong resolve and determination and what ever the pressure and adverse comments her resolve will not be affected. She further said even if she is not elected, she will always be seen in the front ranks of the party.

Providing her opinion on the proxy votes, Maria said she will welcome proxy votes and that if she does not welcome it, it will be an undemocratic attitude. The other candidate contesting party chairpersonship is party activist Mohamed Nazim.

MDP Presidential Primary News Coverage

Male' - 20:23 - Voting is still going strong in Kalaafaanu School in Male'. Turn out seems quite high. Most people seemed to have turned up to vote towards late afternoon. Old, and young, men and women, they came to exercise their democratic right in the first and free Presidential Primary ever to be held in the Maldives by any political party.
Some complaints were received about missing names from the electoral list but on the whole most people seem quite satisfied with the way things are going. People waited patiently in long queues inside the hall and outside.
Currently the crowd is thinning out as the voting is scheduled to close at 9 pm.

Male' - 15:15 - Voting is going well and with enthusiasm, according to reports. A political analyst stated "patient and orderly the people are waiting in queues in Kalafanu School. The hall itself was packed. This is the epitome of democracy in the Maldives. Irrespective of who they voted, they all had one thing in common- they all want to get rid of the dictator (Golhaabo)."
Hinnavaru - 15:00 - Voting began at 14:00 as planned and going smoothly.
Male' - 15:00 - Candidates Reeko Moosa and Anni has voted in Male'.
Male' - 14:15 - Lhaviyani and Fuahmulah stations now opened. Anni waiting in the Galolhu station to vote.
Male' - 14:00 - Polling begins to elect MDP's presidential candidate. All Male' boxes opened in addition to some island boxes stationed in Male' at Kalaafaanu School. No one at the Lhaviyani desk and some members are complaining.
Male' - 13:50 - If you have a proxy you can only vote at the proxy table. Do not go to any other table then you cannot vote for your proxy.
Male' - 13:45 - Anni's camp is in Dharubaaruge and have assigned a desk for each Atoll and will conduct entry polls.

Special Majlis: Transitional Chapter completed

In the ongoing voting on the member submitted proposals to the Transitional Chapter (TC) at the Special Majlis , opposition members yesterday expressed their deep dissatisfaction and anger over the proposal number 32 proposed by MP for Mulaku Atoll as well as Minister at the President’s Office Aneesa Ahmed seconded by President’s member Mohamed Anil.

The Majlis session held yesterday was dominated by raising of points of orders. Before the break time opposition members by raising points of orders repeatedly said that the proposal number 32 submitted by MP Aneesa Ahmed was directly against the principles of the constitution that is undergoing amendment. Opposition members pointed out their dissatisfaction on the wordings of the clause (b) of the proposal number 32. Clause (b) of proposal 32 states that “until such time as presidential elections are held and President is elected and assumes office under this constitution, the cabinet to be appointed shall be the cabinet in force when this constitution came in to force. In this regard during the transitional stage clause (d) of article 4 of chapter on People’s Majlis of this constitution and clause (c) of article one of the chapters on the Cabinet of this constitution will not be acted up on”.

Opposition Members by raising points of orders argued that the inclusion of cabinet ministers in the people’s Majlis during the transitional stage is contradictory to what is stated in the revised constitution.

Speaker of the Special Majlis responding to the members said that proposal was submitted to the session after the unofficial meeting held last Thursday and with the amendments agreed at the meeting. However opposition members, independent members and some members of People’s Association by taking points of orders insisted that the amendment to the proposal 32 does not bring make any substantial change and that the amendment in essence is more or less same to what was proposed.

MP for Thaa Atoll Hassan Afeef taking a point of order pointed out that even though Aneesa’s proposal now has some extra clauses included, the proposal is more or less the same and has no major changes. He further said that this was an attempt to mislead and cause confusion. MP for Raa Atoll Shaheen Hameed too said that the inclusion of cabinet ministers in the Majlis during the transitional stage is contradictory to the revised constitution.

PA’s President Abdulla Yamin speaking on the proposal of Aneesa said that it cannot be put to vote and that it contradicts some of the basic principles of the system of government chosen by the people, the presidential system. He said that this proposal is a good one and that it will diminish the pwers of the constitution. He further said the proposal will demolish the foundation of democratic system of government chosen by the people.

As opposition members opposed the proposal number 32, DRP members and members supporting the government offered their full support to the proposal. In this regard presidents member Fathin Hameed, MP for Addu Atoll Ibrahim Shareef ( Mavota), MP for Ha. Atoll Ahmed Muiz, MP for Gdh. Atoll Abbas Ibrahim stated that there is no reason why Aneesa’s proposal cannot be put to vote and that it does not contradict the revised constitution.

Legal Reform Minister Mohamed Nasheed stated that majority of the members are reaching a agreement to revise proposal number 32 and that during the break time MP Aneessa will work to finalize the amendment.

After the break speaker Gasim Ibrahim commenced voting on the proposal submitted by members to the transitional chapter. How ever he did not call for vote on Aneesa’s proposal. Instead he called for vote on proposal 36 and 35 which was passed by the Majlis. After which Speaker then called for vote on proposal 32. Proposal number 32 was put to vote with the amendment reached during break time as mentioned earlier by Minister Nasheed. Amended proposal of Aneesa disregards the exceptions called for in the earlier proposal.

Clause (a) of amended proposal voted on by members’ states that until such time as the first presidential elections be held under this constitution and a president elected and until he assumes office, the president in office at the time of this constitution came in force, shall remain office.

Clause (b) states that until such time as presidential elections are held and President is elected and assumes office under this constitution, the cabinet to be appointed shall be the cabinet in force when this constitution came in to force.
Clause (c) states that states that cabinet appointed after the first presidential elections held under this constitution shall not include Members of the Majlis.

At this stage opposition members requested points of orders which speaker denied. The opposition members then started shouting and some members even stood up. Despite opposition members protests speaker Gasim continued calling for vote on proposal number 32 which was eventually passed with 61 votes in favor.

Some opposition members walked up to the front row and criticized speaker. During this destruction MP for L. Atoll was asked to leave the Majlis for disobeying speaker’s orders. Subsequently Majlis was interrupted for 10 minutes. After the Majlis resumed members again started taking points of orders. They questioned speaker whether he had announced announce MP Reeko Moosa’s Name three times and asked the speaker to check it. They argued that the chair did not announce Moosa’s Named thrice. The session yesterday concluded at this stage.

Before concluding yesterday session Speaker Qasim revealed that the date when the next Majlis session would be informed later.

No plans to be a Minister for long time - Nasheed

Minister of Legal Reform Information and Arts Mohamed Nasheed has said that he has no plans to remain as a cabinet minister for a long period of time. Minister Nasheed made the statement speaking on HFM radio last night.

Minister Nasheed said that he was in the cabinet to assist a specific person to implement the reform agenda and that once the job is done he will return to where he came from. He said even if President Gayoom wins another term, he has no plans to remain as a minister and that once the reform agenda is complete he will return to where he was before.

Speaking on his political future Minister Nasheed further said he does not believe that the present freedom of press is due to any work carried out by group of reporters or by any other organization. He further said that he did not receive a single proposal from any reporter or an individual or a specific organization towards opening up the media.

Minister Nasheed was appointed as Minister of Legal Reform Information and Arts on 31 October 2007. Till then he served as Minister of Information and Arts. He was appointed to the cabinet on 14 July 2005.

Minister Nasheed was regarded as the champion of the recently gained press freedom when he facilitated all the news papers and magazines that were denied registration previously.

Next presidential election scheduled for 10 Oct. 2008

Special Majlis yesterday endorsed to hold the next presidential elections on the 10 of October 2008.

As part of the ongoing voting on transitional chapter at the Special Majlis, a proposal submitted by MP for Mulaku Atoll Aneesa Ahmed and supported by President’s Member Mohamed Anil on presidential election was endorsed yesterday. The proposal stated that next presidential elections should be held before 10 October 2008.

Clause (a) of this proposal on presidential election stated that the first presidential elections to be held under this constitution should be held before 10 October 2008 and Clause (b) of this article says that the president elected under clause (a) shall assume office before 11 November 2008. The proposal was endorsed with 80 votes in favor. Although no member voted against 7 members voted neutral.

Majlis yesterday also passed to hold the first parliamentary elections under the constitution before 31 March 2009. Clause (a) of proposal on parliamentary elections submitted by Aneesa Ahmed says that first parliamentary elections held under this constitution should be held prior to 31 March 2009. Clause (b) of this proposal says that the Parliament elected as per clause (a) of this proposal must hold its first session prior to 1of May 2009. The proposal was passed with 78 votes in favor. One member voted against while 8 members voted neutral.

The controversial proposal of MP Aneesa Ahmed, proposal number 32 which caused a lot of arguments and disruptions yesterday was also passed. Clause (a) of the proposal number 32 proposed by Aneesa and supported by Mohamed anil states that until such time as the first presidential elections be held under this constitution and a president elected and until he assumes office, the president in office at the time of this constitution came in force, shall remain office.

Clause (b) of proposal 32 states that “until such time as presidential elections are held and President is elected and assumes office under this constitution, the cabinet to be appointed shall be the cabinet in force when this constitution came in to force. In this regard during the transitional stage clause (d) of article 4 of chapter on People’s Majlis of this constitution and clause (c) of article one of the chapters on the Cabinet of this constitution will not be acted up on. The president has the authority to make bring ay changes to the cabinet”.

Clause (c) of the proposal states that cabinet appointed after the first presidential elections held under this constitution shall not include Members of the Majlis.

Dr. Hassan is back in Male’

Dr. Hassan Saeed has returned to Male’ after completing a campaign tour of North Maldives.

Former Attorney General Dr. Hassan Saeed who has revealed his presidential bid returned Male’ from Hdh Hanimaadhoo. Dr. Ahmed Shaheed Spokesperson for Dr. Hassan said that the rally held at Hanimaadhoo by Dr. Hassan was very successful and that a lot of people attended the rally. Dr. Shaheed said as per information from the people of the island approximately 50 people would attend a meeting in that island but that at Dr. Hassan’s rally the hall was full and that people even had to wait out side in the court yard.

“Some people expressed their dissatisfaction over the recent appointment of some ministers and also on the retirement notices given to 56 year old people, apparently notices were given to specific people, this goes to show that that there is no standard. Many are afraid to come out and speak to politicians but we are saying that there is no reason why they should be afraid” said Dr. Shaheed.

When asked to comment on the awareness of the people and their state of readiness for the forthcoming elections Dr. Shaheed replied that judging from the experiences of the recent visit the people of the north are well informed very ready for the elections. Dr. Shaheed said the people of these islands had many questions on the elections. In particular the people wanted know whether the forthcoming presidential elections would be free and fair. Dr. Shaheed further said north experience shows the people definitely want a change. Dr. Shaheed further said Dr. Hassan’s manifesto was well received.

MDP led alliance is confident of wining - Anni

Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) former chairperson of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has said that an MDP led alliance is confident of defeating President Gayoom in the forthcoming presidential elections and that he can already see 70,000 votes being received. He made the statement speaking at primary campaign rally held at Fuvahmulah last night.

Speaking at the rally in Fuvahmulah, Anni said that President Gayoom for the last 30 years had used his third hand to accomplish anything and everything and that this third hand can be seen as President Gayoom’s campaign logo. He said that it will be easy for MDP led alliance to win the presidential race against a person who has sustained his rule by utilizing the third hand. He further provided examples of how 70,000 votes will be received.

Anni said that the most important thing MDP led alliance should do to win the presidential election is to give love and respect to DRP members and other people who have yet not joined any party. In addition Anni said the DRP is the party which strived hard to introduce the democratic system of government and that the world has yet to see a democratic system where the party leader automatically becomes the presidential candidate without having to compete in a primary.

As part of his primary campaign Anni last Sunday night held a rally in Hithadhoo of Addu atoll as well.

MDP starts sending ballot boxes to atolls

Presidential Primary Committee of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has revealed that the ballot boxes to be used in the primary elections are on their way to the atolls.

Vice Chairman of the Presidential Primary Committee Ubaidhulla Muaz ballot boxes for the primary election has been dispatched to 3 islands of the Shaviyani Atoll and that the ballot boxes to the atolls will dispatched on different dates to different atolls. He said this is due to the transport arrangements and that all ballot boxes will be positioned one day ahead of the election date.

“The way our schedule is, we are dispatching the boxes to different directions every day, at present we have dispatched 3 boxes, and 6 is to be sent today (last Thursday), those islands which can be reached by flight we will dispatch the boxes by flight, we have a tight program on 21, 22, 23 these days, but we will position all boxes one day ahead of the election day” said Ubaidulla.

Ubaidulla revealed that ballot boxes are already in Feevah, Magoodhoo and Kaditheemu of Shaviyani atoll. Ubaidulla also said that 117 ballot boxes will positioned in 86 islands. He further said ballot boxes will also be kept in 6 resorts and 3 industrial islands.

MDP primary election is scheduled for the 25 of April.

IDP responds to DRP allegations of illegal campaigning

Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) has responded to statement issued by Dhivehi Rahyithunge Party (DRP) which stated that ongoing campaigning to win the forthcoming presidential election is illegal. The statement said that ongoing presidential campaign activities carried out by political parties as well as private individuals intending to stand elections is directly against Clause (a) of article 9 of Law No. 1/ 98 “ Law on Presidential Elections”.

Vice president of IDP Mohamed Hassan Manik said that he cannot understand the reasons for such a statement. He indicated that even President Gayoom, Leader of DRP too is engaged in campaign activities. He said the fact that Rajje Daily a local newspaper had a picture of President Gayoom with his campaign logo, an open palm, and words Maumoon 2008 - DRP Presidential Candidate is proof that President Gayoom is indeed carrying out campaigning as opposed to claims made by DRP. DRP had said that the party will only carry out campaigning when the opportunity to do so is opened by the Elections Commissioner.

Mohamed Hassan Manik said that if campaigning is to be made illegal then there is no point in having political parties. He said if political parties are legalized then it should be legal for parties to carry out political activites.

DRP informs that the party will carry out campaigning within the boundaries of the constitution. In this regard DRP says that all political activities carried out by political parties must be within the boundaries of the constitution.

According to the statement ongoing presidential campaign activities carried out by political parties as well as private individuals intending to stand elections is directly against Clause (a) of article 9 of Law No. 1/ 98 “ Law on Presidential Elections”.

The article says that a presidential candidate can only carry out campaign activities after he is elected by the People’s Majlis to stand a general election by the people to ascertain whether that person elected by the Majlis is acceptable to the people to be the president. DRP say the most important aspect of a person standing elections to be the president must always abide by the constitution in force at the time and that the general public should be concerned with such people who disregard the law.

National Alliance to be registered in the next 2 months

Dr. Musthafa Luthfy a former cabinet minister and key person engaged in registration of a political party under the name of National Alliance has revealed that necessary documents will be submitted along with 3000 signatures within the next 2 months. He made the statement in a special exclusive given to Miadhu Daily from Hdh Kulhudhuhfushi where he said he was in final stages of obtaining the required 3000 signatures required for the registration.

“We are working on obtaining the required 3000 signatures, we are now in the final stages, we are confident that we can obtain the registration within the next two months. It is not our style to send representatives to meet those interested in joining the party, we will go to them and explain what is in the party manifesto and listen to their views and hold discussions; that is why it is taking some time” said Dr. Musthafa in his exclusive given to Miadhu Daily.

Speaking to Miadhu Daily from Kulhudhufushi Dr. Luthufy said people of Kulhudhufushi have high political awareness and that the people are being very supportive. He further said island of Kulhudhufushi is not an island that is new to the party.
According to sources the Alliance team went to Hdh Kuludhufushi on the 18 of this month and is expected to return to Male’ on the 24 of this month.

Commissioner of Elections as per Political Party Regulation 2005 authorized to carry out necessary work for the registration of National Alliance on the 25 of December 2007.

Anni says MDP led alliance will double the revenue from fisheries

Former Chairperson of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) competing in the presidential primary of the party has said that in a government led by an MDP alliance , the revenue earned from the fishing industry would be increased by twofold. He made the statement at a primary campaign held at Seenu Hithadhoo last night.

Speaking at the rally Anni said the aim of a government led by an MDP led alliance will be to increase revenue earned by fisher folks. He said if the fishermen earn Rf. 11 or Rf.12 thousand the aim of the government led by an MDP alliance would be to increase that amount to Rf. 24 to Rf.25 thousand.

“In 1989 only STO was authorized to export dry fish, when STO had the monopoly on the export they were buying a kilo of fish at Rf. 7 , but when the business was opened up to competition the price has changed to Rf.40 per kilo. In 1989 only FPID was allowed to export frozen fish , then a kilo of fish stood at Rf.1.25 or Rf.2. but when the business was opened up a kilo now stands at Rf.7.” said Anni speaking at Seenu Atoll Hithadhoo Muhibuhdheen School.

According to Anni the rewards of the fishing industry should be proportional to the fish price at world market. He said just as the pristine beaches of this country became the goose that lay the golden egg when the industry was connected to international market fishing industry too should be connected to international market to obtain high rewards.

“The beaches of this country became the goose that lay a golden egg when the beaches were connected to European markets, when our fishing grounds are connected to European markets then we will obtain good rewards, currently Male’ is the only port where yellow fins can be exported, we can easily make Gan International Airport a place where yellow fins that are bought from 3 Southern atolls can be exported, we provide the necessary machinery and skills to the people through bank loans and so forth” said Anni.

Anni further said this not something that is hard to achieve. He said if the people are determined enough it can be achieved easily. He said he will work his best to increase the earning of the fisher folks in a government led by an MDP alliance.

Sp. Majlis in chaos when annulment of constitution is passed

Drama unfolded at the Special Majlis yesteday when it passed to annul the constitution currently in force in the ongoing endorsements of articles of the transitional chapter. When the Special Majlis passed to annul the 1998 constitution disagreements among members erupted resulting in heated debates and series of points of orders being taken.

The article which was the main cause of the disagreements was proposal 20. Clause (b) of the proposal subtitled “entry into force” states that the day this constitution comes in to force, the constitution of the Republic of Maldives which has been in force since I January 1998 will be annulled.

The first to protest by taking point of order was MP for Male’ Ibrahim Ismail as well as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Special Majlis. Ibra raised the point of order and protested when the Chair was about to call for vote on article 24. According to Ibra with the Majlis endorsement of the clause (b) of proposal 20, the president, the cabinet, the people’s Majlis and other constitutionally empowered institutions will lose legal authority. Ibra said this will eventually lead to country going ashtray.

Responding to Ibra’s comments Legal Reform Minister Mohamed Nasheed said Ibra’s remarks do not have any weight. He said the legal authority of the government would not cease to exist even though clause (b) of proposal 20 is passed. Legal Reform Minister pointed out if the current constitution is not annulled when the revised constitution comes in to force, then 2 constitutions will be in force at the same time and will be a constant contradiction to each other.

Deputy Speaker of the Majlis Shaheen Hameed also raised a point of order and supported Minister Nasheed. Shaheen also stated that article 24 can be put to vote despite Ibra saying it cannot be done.

Ibra raising point of order for a second time strongly criticized Shaheen’s and Nasheed’s comments. At this point opposition members by taking points of orders joined in to support Ibra.

Tensions increased in the Majlis when MP for Baa Atoll Ali Faiz used a point of order to openly criticize Minister Nasheed. MP Faiz said that Minister Nasheed has a forked tongue. With MP Faiz verbally attacking Minister Nasheed, Minister Nasheed too responded strongly and was seen waiving his arms and shouting. Both men were ardently defending their points of views. However when MP for Laamu Atoll Recco Moosa using a point of order criticized Minister Nasheed , Minister Nasheed also responded and defended his point. Speaker Qasim announced the end of yesterday’s morning session when argument between Ricco Moosa and Nasheed was going on.

At yesterday’s session voting was called for member proposals which were agreed upon at unofficial meetings. Speaker Qsasim did not ask for vote on proposal 17 as it includes a clause which contradicts the constitution. However proposal 2 to proposal 23 was put to vote. According to Speaker Qasim proposal 17 contradicts article 46 of the revised constitution. Speaker later ruled that a final decision on the proposal 17 would be taken later in accordance with the wishes of many members.

Yesterday’s session was attended by 100 members. It must be noted that the proposals passed with the full support of DRP members were articles which makes reference to “this constitution”. Some members pointed this out by raising points of orders. In this regard although some proposals were agreed up on at unofficial meetings, they failed to pass as DRP members did not offer their support as these proposals did not contain “this constitution”. Before closing the morning session Speaker announced that a session would be held in the afternoon.

Dr. Munavvar criticizes education system

Dr. Mohamed Munavvar President of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) competing in the MDP presidential primary has criticized the current educational system employed by the government.

Speaking at a campaign rally held in Gdh. Thinadhoo , Dr. Munavvar said although more than 10,000 students undergo GCE O Level examinations every year, only a handful obtain good results. He said this was due to government policy of differentiating standard of education provided to different atolls. He also said good results are obtained by students whose parents spend a lot of money on tuition. He said while children of poor parents who just cannot afford spend money on tuition, schools in the atolls unlike schools in Male’ do not even have proper facilities needed to impart knowledge.

“Many of us know the actual status of our nation, the fact is only very few students who complete the secondary education will be able to write a letter properly, this is because the current education system is not adequate” said Dr. Munavvar.

Dr. Munavvar addressing a very attentive audience said the Education Minister had declared that education system would be improved and that an improved system would be introduced in year 2010. He said it is disheartening know the education minister had not made public steps that would be taken in the next two years. He said the objective of the education system must to produce capable people to take up all kinds of jobs in the country and that educational syllabus must be reshaped to achieve it.

“We are working to establish a nation, we are one nation for the benefit of the Maldivian people, if that is so then we have to determine and establish our targets, we clearly aware of what we should be doing to improve our education system, we know how much control the ministry have over the schools, teachers are not the given freedom even to carry out their duties” said Munavvar.

Speaking further Dr. Munavvar further said that country lacks a proper preschool system.
“When we send our children to preschool we are sending them in to danger, classes are overcrowded, teachers are unable to handle them, this is the situation even in Male’, we don’t have centers have established to prepare them for grade one and that’s the beginning, the ending is even more sad” said Dr. Munavvar.

“We need to expand the role of private schools; we need to have international schools, there are parents who wants it, considering the expenses the parents incur giving tuition , international schools can be operated in Maldives” said Dr. Munavvar.

Independent candidates will find it difficult - Zaki

Vice President of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Mr. Ibrahim Hussain Zaki has said that it would be almost impossible for any candidate to win the forthcoming presidential elections without being affiliated to a political party.

Speaking to Miadhu Daily Mr. Zaki said that it would be almost impossible for any candidate to win the presidential without a party ticket and if by any chance an independent candidate succeeds then it means Maldivians have not accepted the party system.

“Without the support of a party any candidate would find it difficult to win the forthcoming elections, if it happens then it means that people has not accepted the party system” said Mr. Zaki who was once a minister in the President Gayoom’s cabinet as well as top diplomat of the SAARC region.

Mr. Zaki further said he believed that Maldivian people would not support independent candidates and that the people would deeply think about the matter.

Many political analysts agree with Mr. ZAaki’s view. They say that as the party system is still in its infancy and if an independent candidate succeeds then it indicates that party system has failed. They say Maldivians would never do such a thing.

Dr. Hassan to start campaign trips to atolls

Former Foreign Minister Dr. Ahmed Shaheed has said that Dr. Hassan Saeed former Attorney General would commence his campaign trips to the atolls next Wednesday. Dr. Hassan Saeed has announced that he will compete for the presidency in the forthcoming presidential elections scheduled later in the year. Dr. Hassan has also revealed that he will stand elections as an independent candidate.

Dr. Shaheed informed that Dr. Hassan would first visit islands of North Maldives. He also said that Dr. Hassan has already commenced his campaign activities.

Dr. Hassan already a leading presidential hopeful had revealed his presidential manifesto on 29 February 2007. The manifesto mainly constitutes of 12 key parts. In this regard to unite the religious divisions already existent in the country, to upgrade the educational system to international standards, to improve the health sector to the levels expected by the people, to provide employment opportunities, to protect the rights of the workers, and to provide adequate shelter to the people.

The manifesto also included promises to wipe out drug abuse from the country, to establish fair and impartial judiciary as well as to improve foreign relations.

Sp. Majlis on Voting on TC: No majority no power says Opposition

Opposition Members have claimed that DRP as the majority party in the Special Majlis are endorsing proposal which the party wants and rejecting proposal which they do not want to pass without any considerations to the best interests of the Maldivian people.

The afternoon session of the Special Majlis held yesterday to proceed with the voting on the Transitional Chapter (TC) was thrown in to a vicious circle of raising points of orders when the chair commenced calling for votes on the proposals concerning duration of the President and the People’s Majlis during the transitional stage. The morning session ended just before proposal number 24 was put to vote. Before proposal 24 was put to vote at the yesterday’s morning session of the Majlis MP for Male’ Ibrahim Ismail raising a point of order said with the Majlis endorsement of the clause proposal 20, the president, the cabinet, the people’s Majlis and other constitutionally empowered institutions will lose legal authority. Ibra further said this will eventually lead to country going astray. At this point yesterday’s morning session was thrown in to mayhem. Verbal attacks at a personal level and raising points of orders was the order of the day.

At the yesterday afternoon session of the Special Majlis, heated arguments continued on the subject of proposal 20 and proposal 24. The proposal submitted by Deputy Speaker Shaheen Hameed titled “Continuation of the President and members of the people’s Majlis in their positions” stated that until such time as the next presidential elections can be held and the next parliamentary elections can be held , the present President and present People’s Majlis will continue to remain in office.

When disagreements between members erupted on the issue, the Chair decided to call for vote on proposals concerning the duration of the President and the People’s Majlis during the transitional stage. When the opposition saw that out of these proposals only proposal which favored DRP were being passed, tensions increased and the floor was soon engulfed in arguments and points of orders. Opposition soon increased raising points of order. MP for Male’ Ibrahim Ismail , MP for Laamu Atoll Ricco Moosa Manik , MP for Meemu Atoll Ahmed Shafeeg, MP for Raa Atoll Ali Waheed and Lhaviani Atoll member Hussain Ibrahim protested loudly on the endorsements of the proposals by majority party DRP. Responses were provided by Nasheed Legal Reform Minister and Ibrahim Shareef MP for Addu Atoll to the opposition.

When the Majlis was deeply engulfed in raising points of orders , arguments and verbal attacks, Chair, Speaker Qasim spoke at length and urged them to focus on work at hand and to appealed to members to set aside differences and work to complete the constitutional reform process as stipulated by the regulations of the Majlis.

At closing stage of the afternoon session of the yesterday’s Majlis , arguments and verbal attacks became so loud it appeared that Speaker Qasim was having difficulty in controlling the Majlis.When MP for Ha Ahmed Muiz started addressing the Majlis by taking point of order, shouting of other members went on forcing MP Muiz to raise his voice himself just to be heard over the others. MP Muiz supported Minister Nasheed and said the annulment of the current constitution on the day the revised constitution comes in to force will not be an issue.

Speaking at the last opportunity before the close of yesterday’s afternoon session, MP for Gnaviani Atoll Mohamed Ibrahim Didi very emotionally said even though the majority party can do what ever they want, there is not much the opposition can do about it. He said the final decision lies with the people.

Some opposition MP after coming out and standing near the eastern gate of the Majlis House shared their views on how the proceeding went with the members of the general public. In this regard two of the opposition MP’s said DRP’s majority became so effective as People’s Association members sided with DRP. Opposition MP’s pointed out that PA’s words and actions do not match.

The next session of special Majlis would be held today at 1430 hours.

Sp. Majlis passes vital articles of the TC

Special Majlis has passed important articles of the Transitional Chapter (TC) currently being considered at the Majlis. Special Majlis has passed to establish a 5 member elections commission within 30 days of the ratification of the revised constitution. The Elections Commission is to be proposed by the political parties and need to be endorsed by the Special Majlis. Further the Majlis also passed to establish an 8 member Judicial Services Commission.

Further the Majlis also passed to establish a Supreme Court comprising of 5 Judges within 45 days of the revised constitution coming into force. The Supreme Court is to be established with the advice of Judicial Services Commission. Majlis also endorsed to establish an Anti Corruption Commission within 60 days of the entry in to force of the revised constitution. Majlis yesterday also passed to establish the Elections Commission, Supreme Court and the Judicial Services Commission that require to be established under the constitution within 60 days of holding the first session of the People’s Majlis elected under the revised constitution.

Before the break time, 21 articles were put to vote and 15 were passed. The first articles put to vote yesterday, were articles on which members have agreed upon at unofficial sessions. It must be noted that the articles passed with the full support of DRP members were articles which makes reference to “this constitution”.

Majlis today was attended by 100 members. Some members raised points of orders. Although security around the Majlis is tight, many members of the general public attended to witness the proceedings.

According to Maldives Police Services, one person was arrested near the Majlis house for disobedience and attempting to barge in to area cordoned off by the Police. Police informs the matter is being investigated.

Voting on transitional Chapter to be continued today

A Special Majlis will gain meet today. The main agenda item scheduled is the continuation of voting on the transitional chapter.

One article of the transitional chapter was passed last week as Majlis sessions were boycotted last week by DRP. In this regard the last 2 sessions of the Special Majlis was cancelled due to lack of quorum as members of DRP has refused to attend.

According to DRP they boycotted the last 2 sessions due to member disagreements on the voting procedure of the transitional chapter.

Speaking with Miadhu Daily last Wednesday night, Chief Spokesperson of DRP Mr. Ibrahim Shafiu said an emergency meeting of its parliamentary group was held and the meeting was concluded without reaching any decision. He said due to inability to reach a common stand on the issue of voting on transitional chapter, the Majlis sessions were boycotted in order not to provide the opportunity for members to take points of orders and disrupt the flow of the Majlis.
Mr. Shafiu said further meetings of its parliamentary group will take place during the week and during that time time members would agree on a common stand and would attend the Majlis on Sunday (today).

MP for Male’ as well as the leader of the Social Liberal Party Mr. Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) speaking to Miadhu Daily on the matter said that leader of DRP was sulking but the members will not care. Mr. Ibra said DRP members will attend the Majlis next Sunday.

Members claim they are being threatened

People’s Majlis and the Special Majlis members have said that they are receiving threats of sorts as part of the ongoing violence in the country. Members made the statement in response to a question posed by Miadhu Daily regarding various comments made by them on various occasion about receiving such threats.

According to members this upsurge in violence in Male’ and elsewhere in the country has many colors of a political scheme. They strongly allege that some politicians were behind it.

In this regard MP for Laamu Atoll Mr. Ricco Moosa Manik said that he too is receiving many threats. He said he has been warned not to speak out in the Majlis and say what ever feel likes. According to Mr. Moosa Manik there must be some political people behind these threats with the purpose of achieving some political gains.

“ They are calling and warning me that I cannot say what I want in the Majlis, these warnings are also given to Speaker of the Special Majlis Qasim Ibrahim, MP Monaza Naeem and MP ADK Nashid , they too receive these warnings , I feel the whole thing is politically motivated” said Mr., Moosa Manik.
MP for Dhaalu Atoll Mr. ADK Ahmed Nashid said that he was a victim of these threats as well. Mr. Nashid said that he very concerened and alarmed as he the victims of many threats. He further said this is politically motivated and the even his family members and his staff are being contacted.

“Even my sister and my staff are being contacted and warned, there is some political motivation in this, recently when my family went to have a sea bath, some body had splashed black oil over my wife’s car, they are being psychologically affected, nowadays I don’t even answer calls other than to numbers in my phone book, but when I speak in the Majlis I am just exercising a privilege guaranteed by the constitution” said Mr. Nashid.

MP for Ga Atoll Mr. Adhnan Haleem and Baa Atoll Member Mr. Ali Faiz also suspect that the recent upsurge in violence in Male’ is politically motivated. Mr. Ali Faiz even said that he is receiving death threats.

“They are saying in very abusive language that they would “slice me up” or stop behaving like that” said Ali Mr. Faiz. Mr. Faiz further pointed out that this is clear indicat

Breaking News: Sp.Majlis passes vital articles of the transitional chapter

Special Majlis has passed important articles of the transitional chapter currently being considered at the Majlis. Special Majlis has passed to establish a 5 member elections commission within 30 days of the ratification of the revised constitution. The Elections Commission is to be proposed by the political parties and need to be endorsed by the Special Majlis. Further the Majlis also passed to establish an 8 member Judicial Services Commission.

Further the Majlis also passed to establish a Supreme Court comprising of 5 Judges within 45 days of the revised constitution coming into force. The Supreme Court is to be established with the advice of Judicial Services Commission. Majlis also endorsed to establish an Anti Corruption Commission within 60 days of the entry in to force of the revised constitution. Majlis today also passed to establish the Elections Commission, Supreme Court and the Judicial Services Commission that require to be established under the constitution within 60 days of holding the first session of the People’s Majlis elected under the revised constitution.

Before the break time, 21 articles were put to vote and 15 were passed. The first articles put to vote today, were articles on which members have agreed upon at unofficial sessions. It must be noted that the articles passed with the full support of DRP members were articles which makes reference to “this constitution.

Majlis today was attended by 100 members. Some members raised points of orders. Although security around the Majlis is tight, many members of the general public attended to witness the proceedings.

According to Maldives Police Services, one person was arrested near the Majlis house for disobedience and attempting to barge in to area cordoned off by the Police. Police informs the matter is being investigated.

Winner of primary will be next president – Zaki

Mr. Ibrahim Hussain Zaki Vice president of MDP has said that winner of the presidential primary will be the next president and that all candidates competing in the MDP presidential primary are people with necessary capacity to lead the country. When asked which candidate has more chances of wining the presidency Mr. Zaki replied that all the 3 candidates completing in the primary are equally capable and whoever wins the primary will win the forthcoming presidential election.

“The 3 of them are equally capable, whoever who wins the primary is going to be the president of this country as they are all very capable people” said Vice President of MDP Mr. Zaki who is considering pulling out of politics.

Mr. Zaki further said who ever who win the primary will also be the candidate for National Unity Alliance and who ever who gets the chance to compete in the presidential elections will the next president . Mr. Zaki also said this year will be marked as the year that will bring an end to President Gayoom’s long rule.

MDP presidential primary is contested by 3 candidates. They are former chairperson of the party Mohamed Nasheed (Anni), President of the party Dr. Mohamed Munavvar and Ricco Moosa Manik member of MDP parliamentary group as well as MP for Laamu Atoll.

Ricco in Lhaviani Atoll

Mr. Ricco Moosa Manik MP for Laamu Atoll, who is currently campaigning to win the party presidential nomination in the elections scheduled for the 25 of this month, has taken his campaign to Laviani Atoll.

According to his campaign office Mr. Moosa Manik is currently in Lhaviani atoll on a two day visit. Mr. Moosa is expected to visit Hinnavaru , Kurendhoo and Naifaru.

In this regard a special meeting was held in Kurendhoo yesterday and in addition a meeting has been scheduled for tonight in Hinnavaru. Campaign activities include sticking of posters, organizing viewing of CDs of previous meetings and meeting the people of the islands.

Campaign office informs that Mr. Moosa has previously made campaign visits to Male’ Atoll, Ha Atoll, Hdh Atoll, Fuvahmulah and Addu Atoll.

The MDP Presidential primary election is to be held on the 25 of this month. Further election of a Chairperson will also be held on the same date.

There is a secret behind the injustices - Ricco

Speaking at campaign rally held at Vilingili Ward of Male’ Mr. Ricco Moosa Manik MP for Laamu Atoll as well as MDP Presidential contender has said that there is a secret behind the injustices inflicted on the people for the last 10 to 12 years. Mr. Moosa Manik also called on the security forces to investigate and arrest any people found to be guilty of such crimes if the country is to be taken to safer shores.

Mr. Moosa Manik said youths of the country were systematically spoilt or exposed to crime due to handing out heavy sentences for minor offences which they committed. Mr. Moosa Manik said police were doing enough to enforce law and order and that this was the major reason for gang violence on the streets of Male’.

“This is indicative of the fact, that after armed forces started law enforcement, have you heard of any gang attacks? Or of anybody being hospitalized due to violence? This shows that we Maldivians are law abiding people” said mr. Moosa Manik.

Mr. Moosa Manik said people are complaining about the laws and regulations being acted up on or being not enforced because the status of the country is so. He said no body cares about law any more because people feel that it applies only to some people and that not everybody is equal. Mr. Moosa said if he wins the party primaries and the eventually the presidential elections he establish a government with a strong and independent judiciary. He said everybody equal in front of the law and that even if his son commits a crime he would be given the due punishment.

Referring to President Gayoom’s statement on the eliminating the drug abuse within 4 months Mr. Ricco Moosa Manik said even if President Gayoom is unable to fulfill that he would achieve it with one year one assumption of top position of the country.

Mr. Moosa said that an MDP led government would strictly follow party polices and party decisions. He said MDP is out to obtain the full rights of the people and to obtain full justice for the people. Mr. Moosa also looked at the present status of the People’s Special Majlis. He said the Majlis have been hijacked by the government. He said this is because under the revised constitution a transitional arrangement is provided for then President Gayoom will have to step down.

He said the purpose of the MDP led Alliance was to establish interim government so that elections could be held prior to November this year.

“However DRP is saying that President Gayoom should be able to complete the present 5 year term, We are saying that’s Ok but please vacate the Presidential Palace by the midnight of 10 November. So when we said that DRP is now saying that under the interim arrangement Mr. Gayoom would lead the country for 2 years. But under the revised constitution a person who already served two terms as President cannot for election again”.

Before concluding Mr. Ricco Moosa Manik called on security forces to guide the nation to safer shores.

If my govt. gets tainted then I would resign – Dr. Hassan

Former Attorney General Dr. Hassan Saeed as well as a leading presidential candidate has said that before a government led by him gets tainted with allegations of being a dictatorship he would resign. He made the statement in an exclusive given to Miadhu Daily.

Speaking to Miadhu Daily that would be no room for any dictatorial or autocratic rule under his leadership and if it happens he would have absolutely no right to be in such a position.

“Before that happens I would resign, there would be no reason to raise that question under my leadership” said Dr. Hassan. Dr. Hassan Saeed further said under the present new system being introduced, there would no opportunity to promote or prolong dictatorships .He said under the revised constitution the three main powers of the constitution and that Maldivian people would not tolerate such governments any longer.

“My manifesto contains steps that would takes us further away from such governments, as such the person who has the executive powers should not have any color of dictatorship, my manifesto shows the way for a modern democracy, how best to bring about it, it talks about election of atoll chiefs and island chiefs ; my manifesto also says I will not have any family members in influential key positions, my manifesto talks about an independent and impartial judiciary, all these are ways that will takes us away from dictatorships” said Dr. Hassan.

Dr. Hassan Saeed former Attorney General resigned from government claiming that government has failed and that he no longer wanted any part of it.

Dr. Hassan pointed out that in a government led by him, specific measures would be taken to prevent the ongoing violence on the streets as well as other crimes being committed.

“I will give priority to ensure roads and homes are safer places for all to live in, people should be able to live in peace and harmony, maintenance of law and order will be an essential part of my government” said Dr. Hassan.

Dr. Hassan further said the judiciary and other important institutions are not effective because of the key officials who assigned with the management of these institutions.

“Commissioner of Police has huge responsibility to maintain law and order; unfortunately he is not performing very well, problems are only increasing instead of decreasing, no body is assuming any responsibility, even Home Minister has said that violence will only be stopped when those committing it stops, this is outrageous, how can government prevent such things with people like that” said Dr. Hassan.

Dr. Hassan said in government led by all key officials would not be responsible but also accountable and if they not perform they would have to step down.

DRP To Gasim: “Show Us A Way Out”

Constitutional reform appears to be on hold after MPs from the ruling Dhivehi Raiyyithunge Party (DRP) walked out of the Special Majlis (constitutional assembly) again on Sunday. They have said they will not return unless Speaker Gasim Ibrahim rules clauses they have proposed can be put to an immediate vote.The clauses deal with a key battleground of the reform process, specifying that the two-term limit on the presidency starts with the implementation of the constitution in progress - meaning President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom can stand for a seventh term.

On HoldDespite a Saturday warning by the DRP, Gasim on Sunday refused to bring forward the proposed clauses on term limits, saying their validity may depend on other clauses due to come up for a vote first. The opposition have supported his decision, but the DRP protested by leaving the assembly.Material already agreed between the parties, such as sections on independent commissions, is timetabled to come up for a vote next. But the DRP say this is unacceptable.“We have made our case,” said DRP coordinator Ibrahim Shafiu in a press conference on Sunday. “Now we are saying to the Speaker: show us a way out.”But with tensions increasing in the long-delayed process of setting transitional arrangements for implementation of the constitution, opposition MPs held their own press conference to say the DRP was using its majority to “hijack” proceedings.And meanwhile no date has been set for the next Special Majlis meeting, meaning the constitutional reform process is on hold pending Gasim’s response.

Gasim also said he might ask the opposition-dominated business committee of the Special Majlis for a ruling on the eligibility of the clauses for a vote, but the DRP argue such a decision would be outside the committee’s “administrative” mandate.The committee, which sets the Special Majlis agenda, is chaired by Mohamed (Monaza) Naeem of the People’s Association (PA) political group, and has previously offered pivotal rulings on issues such as a July 2007 allegation of voting fraud within the assembly.Other members are Abdullah Yameen and Zahir Adam of the PA; Hussein Rasheed Hassan, Mohamed Aslam and Mohamed Shihab of the largest opposition Maldivian Democratic Party; and Aneesa Ahmed, Ibrahim Shafiu, Moosa Naeem and Mohamed Majdee Ibrahim of the DRP.

After Gasim’s election as Speaker in May 2007, he and the committee introduced radical changes to Special Majlis procedure after two years of stalled constitutional development.But it has clashed with Gasim over issues such as a motion to remove presidential appointees from the assembly, supported by the committee but dismissed by Gasim last July.“We haven’t been asked” to consider the viability of the clauses, said Naeem on Sunday. “But if we are asked for an opinion, we will give one.”Two TermsMaldivian chose a presidential over a parliamentary system in last August’s constitutional referendum, with a two-term limit on the presidency as part of the package.But the DRP now argue the limit was never intended to be retrospective, whilst the MDP and some independent MPs contend President Gayoom has already exceeded it.

Already passed constitutional material enshrines the two-term limit, but opposition MPs have now proposed clauses for the transitional chapter indicating the constitution is simply an amendment of that introduced in 1953 when Maldives became a republic.Yet they also argue already passed material makes it clear the term limit applies retrospectively, in any case.Meanwhile head of DRP parliamentary group Aneesa Ahmed has proposed a clause specifying the phrase “this constitution” applies only to the one in progress, and another saying the two-term limit will start in 2008.Gasim’s ruling must apply to both sets of clauses. But bearing in mind his previous ruling that the constitution is “amended” and not “new”, a decision not to table any of the clauses is widely equated with a ruling against the DRP.Gasim is a DRP vice president and finance minister, but was part of the opposition reform movement until 2005, and is believed to maintain links with opposition politicians.

TimingAfter missing the original May 2007 deadline, and a revised date of November 2007, to complete the constitution, the assembly has now passed the 31 March 2008 date pledged by information minister Mohamed Nasheed in February.And international diplomats including James Moran, EU director for Asia, who visited in March, have warned time is short to implement the independent commissions due to be put in place ahead of presidential elections.With Gasim appearing reluctant to produce a definitive ruling on the contentious clauses, and the DRP refusing to attend the assembly until he does, it is unclear when the process may now be completed.The only material on transition to have passed a vote so far is the principle of a transitional chapter, agreed on Sunday.

Voting on Transitional Chapter: Only one article put to vote before Majlis lost quorum

The voting on Transitional Arrangements scheduled at yesterday’s sitting of the Special Majlis was suspended due to loss of quorum in the second half. At the sitting before the Majlis was adjourned due loss of quorum, only one article was put to vote, i.e. the article stipulation the period of the Transition. The article says unless otherwise specified, the provisions specified in this chapter will only be effective until a president and a Majlis is elected under the revised constitution assumes office.

The article was passed with 71 members in favor out of 93 members in attendance. After the article 1 of the Transitional Arrangements was passed Majlis went in to a round of points of orders. Series of points of orders were taken by Members which lasted for about one and half hours. Members affiliated to DRP called on the Chair to indicate which articles will be put to vote, well in advance. Legal Reform Minister Mr. Mohamed Nasheed taking a point of order called on the Chair to reveal which amendments proposed by Members will be put to vote and which amendments will not be put to vote prior to asking for vote on the articles of the Transitional Chapter.

Many other Members supporting DRP by taking points of orders supported Mr. Nasheed’s proposition and said unless the Chair abide by the proposal DRP Members would not take part in the voting on the Transitional Arrangements. At yesterday’s sitting DRP Members were given clear instructions on how to vote through a whip sheet. The whip sheet called on DRP Members to vote for Mr. Shaheen Hameed and Mr. Mohamed Anil’s amendments as well as Mr. Shaheen Hameed, Ms Aneesa Ahmed and Mr. Mohamed Anil’s proposal. The whip sheet also stated that “majority of the DRP Parliamentary group is not in support of passing any other am amendments other than those mentioned”.

The whip sheet also instructed DRP Members to ask the Chair to ask for votes on amendments which could not be consolidated or agreed up on at unofficial meetings in the order they were proposed prior to asking for votes on the amendments agreed up on at the unofficial meetings. The DRP whip sheet instructed Members to walk out if the Chair decides to act otherwise. Opposition MDP Members and other Members supporting the opposition by taking points of orders said that those amendments which have been agreed upon should be put to vote prior to asking for vote on amendments which could be agreed up on. Opposition Members also repeated asked the Chair to proceed with asking for vote as the procedure was inline with Majlis procedures. The Chair of the Majlis, Speaker Qasim Ibrahim in response to DRP Members points of orders said voting is being called up on amendments agreed up on at unofficial meetings and that those amendments which may conflict with other amendments prior to voting has not been identified.

He further a decision on such amendments will be reached after consultation with Administrative Committee of the Special Majlis. Due to series of points of orders being taken, another article was not put to vote during the first half of the Majlis and Majlis was adjourned in the second half due to loss of quorum. Quorum was lost due to DRP Members and government ministers not attending the Majlis after break time. During the 15 minutes which Speaker Qasim waited for DRP Member to attend so that Majlis could be resumed, opposition Members protested the DRP Members and government ministers who were the cause of loss of quorum. Their protests could be heard at the gallery even though the microphones were turned off. They claimed that it was against Majlis procedures to use the facilities of the Majlis if Members are not attending the sessions.

After the Majlis was adjourned due loss of quorum and when opposition Members came out on the court yard of the Majlis House, some members of the general public who came to witness the proceedings of the Majlis gathered and protested. The protests were very loud and were mainly directed against those Members who were the cause of loss of quorum. Police intervened and dispersed the crowd. A news conference was held at the site at around 12pm by the opposition Members.

When Maldives Police Services started videoing the news conference opposition Members told the Police that just as any other institution they had a right a do that and that they could that even if they come closer and ask questions too. Speaker Mr. Qasim Ibrahim before adjourning the Majlis announced that date for the next sitting will be informed to members later.

MDP Presidential Primary: Ricco and Anni to accept proxy vote

Even though Dr. Mohamed Munavvar President of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) competing in the party presidential primary has said he will not make use of any proxy votes, the other 2 candidates competing in the presidential primary has made it clear that will accept proxy votes.

The other 2 candidates competing in the primary, MP for Laamu Atoll Mr. Moosa Manik and former chairperson Mr. Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) has also said the voting by proxy is against the spirit of elections but that they would accept proxy votes.

Mr. Anni said that there were many party members abroad and that if the members want to vote by proxy then he would make use of it and that it was important to provide the opportunity and facilitate means where those members can vote.

Dr. Mohamed Munavvar at a campaign rally held at Kulhudhuhfushi last Friday night has said that he was not in favor of voting by proxy. Dr. Munavvar said the voting by proxy violates the principles of voting and is against the spirit of elections.

At the address given at Hdh Kulhudhuhfushi, Dr. Munavvar said he will not make use of any proxy votes despite other two candidates competing in the primary doing so. He said as the MDP reformists are people with high awareness on politics, their actions must confirm what they say. In this regard he said all members should come out and vote on their own free will.

DRP to boycott voting on Transitional Chapter

Dhivehi Rahyithunge Party (DRP) has issued a statement stating that they will not take part in voting of the transitional chapter unless Speaker of the Special Majlis gives them advance indication on what amendments will be voted on and what amendments will be kept aside at that particular session.

DRP in a news release issued yesterday stated that several attempts were made to find out which attempts were made to find out which amendments and proposals would be voted up during the session held on 4 April. Statement said however no response was received from the Speaker of the Majlis. The statement also said the amendments proposed to the Majlis include very important amendments chosen by DRP and that amendments were proposed after discussions with the DRP Parliamentary Group. The statement also noted that although some of the initial amendments proposed were cancelled in order to respect opinion of the majority of the members, these amendments include certain basic elements which the party considers to be essential and should be kept.

“As such DRP will only take part in the voting on the transitional chapter , when Majlis amend it procedure to call for votes on amendments proposed by individual members ahead of voting of points agreed between DRP and the opposition at the un official meetings” stated the news release.
MDP Parliamentary Group Leader Mr. Hassan Afeef speaking to Miadhu Daily said that they cannot support DRP’s statement. In this regard Mr. Afeef noted that which amendment is to be kept aside can only be known depending on the way the voting of the amendments proceeds at the Majlis. Mr. Afeef noted that even on previous occasion Speaker has not called for a vote on any amendments that may conflict with what has already been passed. Mr. Afeef further said he will ask all MDP Parliamentary Group Members and other members who support MDP to fully cooperate with the Speaker if the Speaker is proceeding in accordance with the Majlis regulations. “DRP’s actions indicate as in the last 30 years, there will be no impartial elections” said Mr. Afeef.

Speaking on the issue MP for Male’ as well as Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Special Majlis Mr. Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) told Miadhu Daily that the only thing DRP is doing at present is to delay the constitutional reform process.

“Members must respect the orders of the Speaker; Members must obey the Speaker, what we have been doing is asking for votes on articles and announce which articles have not been voted on, articles which conflicts can only be known as you proceed with the voting and how the amendments gets through, there is no way Speaker can identify which article or amendment can cause conflict” said Mr. Ibra.

Mr. Ibra said it looks as if DRP is attempting to influence the voting on the transitional chapter. Mr. Ibra said this is unlawful and the Attorney General should stop the Special Majlis from proceeding further and prosecute those attempting to influence the Majlis. “First Attorney General should prosecute President’s Member Azima Shukoor” said Mr. Ibra.

Former Foreign Minister Dr. Ahmed Shaheed speaking on the issue said DRP do not have the power to intimidate Speaker of the Special Majlis. Dr. Saheed said DRP does not have the power to challenge or intimidate either the Speaker of the Special Majlis Mr. Qasim Ibrahim or Member in the Special Majlis working for reform. Dr. Shaheed further said DRP’s statement was proof of the party’s lack of in serving national interest and that DRP always bring forward party interest.

“It is a warning issued by DRP, it is an intimidation, but DRP has no power or capacity to intimidate or threaten Speaker of Special Majlis or Members of the Special Majlis working for reform , it shows the DRP is protecting party interests rather n working to protect national interests” said Dr. Shaheed.

Dr. Munavvar not in favor of voting by proxy

Dr. Mohamed Munavvar President of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) competing in the party presidential primary has said that he is not in favor of voting by proxy. Dr. Munavvar said the voting by proxy violates the principles of voting and is against the spirit of voting.

At a primary campaign address given at Hdh Kulhudhuhfushi last night Dr. Munavvar said he will not make use of any proxy votes despite other two candidates competing in the primary doing so. He said as the MDP reformists are people with high awareness on politics, their actions must confirm what they say. In this regard he said all members should come out and vote on their own free will.

“What we are saying is that every body has the right to vote, that is one of the very basic rights, but that right have to exercised without the influence of any other party” said Dr. Munavvar in pointing out that this example should be followed by the general public.

In addition Dr. Munavvar said that although Maldives posses a proud history and a rich culture President Gayoom in his 30 year long rule have kept it hidden from the people. He said most Maldivians nowadays are not aware of what it means to be a Maldivian nor are they aware of what the country’s heroes and heroines. He said this one of the few country’s in the world which was not colonized and that the country has a proud history that all Maldivians can be proud of.

“Even though we were under the Portuguese rule for a little while, there were heroes that saved the country, just as others were defend to the country when other foreign sources tried to take our the sovereignty of the country, if we are not aware of such things then what Maldivinisim is there among us” said Dr. Munavvar.

Dr. Munavvar also said that Maldivians have an identity of their own, something they can be proud of. In this regard he said most young men and women today are more familiar with Hindhi or some other language than their very own mother tongue, Dhivehi.

The 2 two candidates competing in presidential primary are also holding campaign rallies in Male’ and in atolls. Apart from Dr. Munavvar the 2 candidates who are contesting the primaries are former chairperson Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) and Member of MDP Parliamentary Group as well as MP for Laamu Atoll Ricco Moosa Manik

MDP Presidential Primaries: No competitive sprit among candidates

The lack of competitive spirit between the 3 MDP presidential candidates competing in the party primaries became apparent at the primary debate held last Wednesday night.

At the news conference like debate held at Dharubaaruge the 3 MDP presidential hopefuls Dr. Mohamed Munavvar President of the party, former chairperson of the party Mr. Mohamed Nasheed, member of party Parliamentarian Group Ricco Moosa Manik , while answering the questions of the press did not express any criticism of each other nor was any attempt made to prove that one was more qualified and capable to executive the top function of the country.

“We are not trying to challenge one another but we going to challenge President Gayoom” was the response given to Miadhu Daily when asked about the lack of competitive spirit.

At news conference like debate the 3 MDP candidates mainly spoke about the policies of an MDP led government. In this regard MDP policy on the abuse of drugs in the country, housing and shelter, population consolidation, education, employment and the development of the atolls were highlighted.

Debate on Transitional Chapter: Majlis lose quorum due members disagreements

The Special Majlis session held yesterday lost its quorum after break time due to disagreements of members over the distribution of a leaflet asking for vote on the transitional chapter.

Tensions were high at the Majlis session where 98 members were in attendance prior to break time. The main reason for the high tensions and temper was the disagreements over the distribution of a blue paper by members of DRP recommending members to vote in their favor with regard to the transitional chapter. As a results of the ensuing disagreements and arguments vote on the transitional chapter was not called.

Opposition Members argue that the distribution of the blue paper “Whip Line” was to influence the vote of the transitional chapter. They claim that Special Majlis regulations do not allow such acts. However DRP Members deny the allegations. They say the blue Whip line was not distributed to the entire Majlis but to specific members. They argue if opposition Members were to believe in multiparty democratic principles such acts must be accepted.

Following the rounds of the “points of orders”, the Chair ordered the Majlis secretariat to remove the papers. The Majlis session was cancelled after loss of quorum after break time as many DRP Members were not in attendance.

The Chair Speaker Qasim Ibrahim before the adjourning the Majlis said that it was sad to see the government ministers bench empty.

Govt. to propose new Bill due to failed Bill on Civil Service Act

Minister of Legal Reform Information and Arts Mr. Mohamed Nasheed has revealed that government plans to submit new Bills to the Majlis to establish independent commissions for the civil servants that the government wants to be excluded from the service due to rejection of the proposed amendments by the government to the Civil Service Act

Speaking at a news conference held at the news room “Fansavees” Mr. Nasheed said the proposed amendments to the Civil Service Act did not get through as it was perceived that it was proposed by the government to influence the forthcoming elections. Mr. Nasheed said that it was not the case and the intent of the amendment was to solve many of the issues that will be faced by many civil servants when they have to suddenly retire with the coming in to force of the Civil Service Act.

“The bill was proposed by the direct initiative of the President as more than 1700 people were suddenly faced with the prospect of giving up their jobs, he was asked by many people to provide a solution to the issue also this was carried on the front page of almost every news paper in town” Mr. Nasheed.

Speaking at the news conference Ms Aneesa Ahmed Minister at the President’s Office as well as MP for Mulak Atoll said the new bill to be proposed includes establishing a lot of independent commissions that are to be set up under the revised constitution such as Anti Corruption Commission and Elections Commission.

“Government will propose to establish new independent commissions and offices, government is also working to establish those institutions and commissions that are to be required to set up under the revised constitution” said Ms. Aneesa.

Ms. Aneesa further said the Bill to be proposed will focus solving issues that Civil Service Commission may face with the formation of these commissions and offices in respect to the scope of work carried out by the commission.

“We are working to submit the bills before May or even earlier, that is bills on setting up the commissions and offices and determining the scope of work also when to assign the work to the commissions” said Mr. Nasheed.

Speaking at the news conference Attorney General Ms Azima Shukoor noted that there was confusion between Public Service and Civil Service.

When asked by Miadhu Daily as to why the rejected amendments were not proposed during the debate on the Civil Service carried out at the Majlis, Mr. Nasheed said as the debate was held during days when the emphasis was on completion of the constitutional reform, the amendments were not taken up.

DRP Walkout On Brink Of Transition Vote

Rising tensions over the constitution in progress spilled over into parliamentary warfare today, with the ruling Dhivehi Raiyyithunge Party (DRP) staging a walkout as the assembly stood on the brink of a vote that would have finalised the Maldives’ new constitution.

The opposition and DRP then held press conferences in quick succession, amid an extensive presence from police in combat gear around the Majlis (parliament) building, to accuse each other of sabotaging the democratic process.

The final chapter remaining is that on transitional arrangements – long a political touchstone, with the DRP seeking a continuation of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s thirty-year rule and the opposition prioritising arrangements that reduce his power during the election period.

But with 97 clauses now up for a parliamentary vote, based on 11 proposals submitted by members, a point of order escalated into a row that postponed the crucial vote until Sunday’s session.

Order

With the public gallery packed in anticipation of a vote, the DRP had imposed a three-line whip on all its members to vote for proposals made by head of parliamentary group Aneesa Ahmed.

But when its whip sheet was distributed shortly before voting was due to start, Laamu atoll member Reeko Moosa Manik of the largest opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) raised a point of order, saying Majlis regulations forbade distribution of documents affecting a vote after the end of the debate.

DRP members argued his point was invalid, adding the whip sheet – which listed the clauses by number only, without including their substance – had been distributed late because of a change in the numbering, and was necessary for its MPs to know how to vote.

Special Majlis speaker Gasim Ibrahim, also finance minister and a DRP vice president, ruled against the party, who then “tore [the sheets] into pieces or stuffed them into their pockets” according to head of MDP parliamentary group Hassan Afeef, and left the Majlis.

MDP and independent MPs told journalists, surrounded by police outside the Majlis gates, that “the government would be lost if it lost the whip” and “privately, most DRP people support [our proposals]”.

But at a subsequent DRP press conference, party coordinator Ibrahim Shafiu maintained the DRP retained a “super majority” and warned: “We will walk out again if they don’t cooperate.”

Numbers

The DRP lost a major parliamentary vote on Tuesday, with the abstention or absence of three of its members meaning it fell short of the majority required to pass a vote on its proposed amendments to the Civil Service Act 2007.

The defeat – a first for a party which has an inbuilt parliamentary majority including eight presidential appointees – has focused attention on key power brokers within the Majlis and Special Majlis (constitutional assembly), such as Special Majlis speaker and finance minister Gasim Ibrahim, and the People’s Association group of ex-ministers.

The People’s Association (PA) parliamentarians, led by the president’s half-brother Abdullah Yameen, could have swung Tuesday’s vote in the government’s favour, but instead voted against or abstained.

And despite rumours the group remains close to the government, MP Ahmed Nazim has now said the PA supports proposals by independent MP Ahmed “ADK” Nashid, which favour opposition preferences.

The move has increased speculation that despite having 29 presidential appointees in the Special Majlis, the DRP may be uncertain of its majority for the crucial transition vote.

Proposals

Aneesa’s proposal for transition includes a clause specifically saying the limit of two presidential terms begins with the new constitution, allowing President Gayoom to run again.

It also allows the current president and parliament to stay in place until elections.

But opposition parliamentarians are currently favouring Nashid’s draft, which allows Gayoom to complete his current term – ending on 11 November – but then puts a committee selected by parliament at the head of state for a period up to six months.

As a compromise with the DRP, it specifies presidential elections ahead of parliamentary and local polls.

Despite Gasim’s ruling against them in today’s skirmish, DRP parliamentarians were careful not to criticise his decision, with Shafiu saying: “We are not accusing anyone. We know the pressure he is under.”