Sunday
22nd Dec 2024
Dhivehi Edition
President Nasheed and President Solih. Photo: TMJ
Parliament Speaker former President Mohamed Nasheed has backtracked on his proposal to change the governance system of the country from a Presidential system to a Parliamentarian system.
Nasheed had proposed the motion in the ongoing Congress of ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
He had strongly campaigned for the motion, arguing that if MDP failed to bring in the change, then it stands to lose the upcoming elections. The Party had split on the issue – with members supporting President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arguing against the motion.
The Congress was to take a vote on the matter on Sunday. At the time of voting, Nasheed had spoken to the Congress. He announced his decision to revoke the motion, adding that he had taken the decision after holding discussions with President Solih.
“I think it would be best to park the issue for now, suspend debate; have discussions with the President and other members to find a better solution,” he said.
His announcement was widely welcomed by those in the Congress. After Nasheed concluded his speech, President Solih had also addressed the Congress.
In his speech, President Solih had praised President Nasheed’s decision to revoke the motion. He admitted that the Congress did start with much tension, but was concluding with MDP coming forth as a mature party.
He added that MDP’s Presidential pick would be chosen from a primary, who will represent the Party in the 2023 elections.
Nasheed’s Parliamentary motion was not expected to gain many votes in Sunday’s session, even if it was tabled by the Speaker. The majority of the Congress has been taken over by President Solih and his proxy, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail.