President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has ratified a series of pivotal constitutional amendments passed by Parliament. The amendments, proposed by Parliamentarian Mohamed Shahidh on behalf of the government, received 78 votes in favour and 13 against during a roll-call vote. This method was adopted due to technical issues with the parliamentary voting system, ensuring the integrity of the process. A core provision of the amendments stipulates that members of Parliament will lose their seats if they change political parties, are expelled from their party, or, in the case of independents, join a political party during their term. This measure seeks to reinforce party loyalty and curb defections, ensuring parliamentarians remain accountable to the electorate and their political mandates. The new legislation also addresses gaps in the Anti-Defection Act, which was previously revised under an MDP-majority Parliament. While the earlier version required MPs who switched parties to resign, it lacked provisions for enforcement. Another key amendment requires parliamentary approval for the presence of foreign military personnel in the Maldives. Foreign troops will now be limited to participating in military exercises unless explicitly authorised by Parliament. This aligns with President Muizzu’s commitment to uphold national sovereignty, exemplified by the redeployment of Indian military personnel in May 2024. In addition to political and sovereignty-focused changes, the amendments enhance protections over the Maldives’ maritime zones, including the Inland Sea and the Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Any alterations to these territories must now secure a three-fourths majority in Parliament. This measure aims to prevent unilateral decisions that could compromise the nation’s maritime boundaries, addressing concerns over territory losses under the previous administration. These ratified constitutional amendments represent a significant step forward in strengthening governance, ensuring the sovereignty of the Maldives, and safeguarding its natural resources.
