MDP Boycotts Parliament Extraordinary Sittings Over Unconstitutional Procedures

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) parliamentary group has announced a boycott of the ongoing extraordinary sittings of Parliament, citing unconstitutional procedures and lack of notice. The opposition party claims the sessions are being held unlawfully, violating Articles 83 and 88 of the constitution. Parliament held an extraordinary sitting on Monday, with another scheduled for Tuesday. MDP MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo) stated on X that the sittings are convened without adequate notice while Parliament is in recess. He emphasized that there is no urgency or constitutional crisis justifying the bypassing of established rules. The extraordinary sittings are addressing key matters, including the proposed merger of presidential and parliamentary elections, amendments to the Pension Act, and the appointment of the government’s first Agriculture Minister as chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM). The MDP has criticized the rushed and irregular sittings, alleging they aim to fast-track major legislative changes. The party, which holds 12 seats, has repeatedly raised concerns over the lack of transparency and adherence to constitutional procedures.