President Proposes No-Confidence System for MPs and Councillors

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to propose a legal amendment introducing a no-confidence mechanism against Members of Parliament and local councillors. Speaking at the 'Espresso With the President' event, the President outlined that citizens would be able to initiate the process. If a representative is deemed to be underperforming or acting outside legal provisions, a petition with a required number of signatures could be submitted. The process would also require support from a certain percentage of MPs. The President stated this change would eliminate the need for mid-term parliamentary elections, suggesting that presidential and parliamentary elections could be held concurrently. A no-confidence vote could be sought if members are "no longer deemed fit to stay in the position." This proposal is part of a broader package of electoral and constitutional reforms the government is preparing, linked to an upcoming referendum. Other key aims include addressing the increasing number of MPs and setting a fixed presidential term start date of November 11. Further proposals include shifting to a preferential voting system to facilitate one-round presidential elections, a move currently under study. The President also plans to propose reserved parliamentary seats for youth and women. The wider reform package also targets strengthening independent institutions and ensuring judicial independence. This involves proposed changes to the composition of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), alongside improvements to resources and the quality of judges.