PNC PG Leader Falahu Warns MDP MPs Will Lose Right to Propose Resolutions

The Parliamentary Group Leader of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC), Ibrahim Falahu, has warned that opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members will no longer be permitted to submit resolutions in the People's Majlis if they do not comply with the ruling party's expectations. Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, Falahu noted that the PNC holds 73 seats while the MDP has only about 11 members, and claimed that the opposition MPs are only able to function because the PNC allows it. He specifically referenced the Rasmalé project, stating that MDP members would not even be allowed to submit a resolution on the matter because MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed has already expressed support for the project. Falahu also defended a proposed amendment to Parliament's standing orders, introduced by independent MP Abdul Hannan Abubakr, which would require a preliminary vote before debate on any resolution. Under current rules, a vote on adoption is taken only after debate. Falahu argued the change is necessary because the MDP submits resolutions on every issue. He further stated that if MDP members wish to submit a resolution regarding the accounts of former President Abdulla Yameen – which he claimed contain 457 million rufiyaa in one bank account and 700 million dollars in a Singapore account – they would be allowed to do so only if they follow the proper procedure of submitting a formal motion.