Proposed Amendments to Restrict Foreign Troop Deployment in Maldives Spark Debate

Maldivian parliamentarians have proposed constitutional amendments to regulate foreign troop deployments and outline conditions for disqualification of elected members, citing past controversies.

Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan stressed that the amendments are essential to prevent misuse of constitutional loopholes, referencing agreements made during the previous Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) administration that stationed Indian troops in the Maldives. Azaan noted that such actions bypassed parliamentary approval by categorizing deployments as non-military.

Hulhudhoo MP Mohamed Shahid introduced amendments mandating parliamentary approval for foreign troop deployment, even during emergencies like war. Azaan argued this aligns with practices in other countries where legislative consent is required for military aid.

Further, the amendments aim to disqualify parliamentarians who change their political affiliations during their term. Azaan clarified that while the proposals ensure accountability, provisions will protect members acting in public interest from unjust expulsion.

Azaan expressed confidence that lawmakers expelled for supporting public welfare would be re-elected, affirming that the proposed laws would strengthen governance and safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.