Speaker Abdul Raheem Joins Parliament Debate in Breach of Standing Orders

Speaker of the People's Majlis, Abdul Raheem Abdulla, has intervened in a parliamentary debate and spoken in defense of the government, in violation of the parliament's standing orders. The incident occurred during a session on tax laws, when opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members inquired about the outcomes of the government's frequent amendments to tax legislation. In response, Speaker Abdul Raheem stated, "I will say that different people will do different things with the money they collect. What some people are doing is using the money they collect to fill their own pockets and enrich their own companies, while what others are doing is saving the country from the bankrupt situation they left it in and paying off the debts." He explained his participation by saying he was responding to the question directed at the chair. However, Article 2(n) of the Parliament's Standing Orders clearly states that the Speaker cannot express an opinion or speak on an issue under debate in a session or committee meeting. Additionally, Article 64(a) specifies that members must address the chair. The Speaker himself is responsible for upholding the standing orders, and under the rules, he is required to take necessary action to prevent any violation or perceived threat to the regulations.