Attorney General (AG) Ahmed Usham has firmly stated that the government's proposal to hold the Presidential and Parliamentary elections on the same day constitutes an electoral change, not an alteration to the nation's foundational constitutional structure.
This statement comes in direct response to growing public criticism and accusations from the opposition that the move represents a fundamental shift in the Maldives' system of governance and a threat to the separation of powers.
Dismissing these claims, the Attorney General on PSM News' "Raajje Miadhu" programme clarified that the core constitutional principle of separating executive, legislative, and judicial powers remains entirely untouched.
“One of the most important things in the Constitution is to have a separation of powers. This change will not change the constitutional system. Secondly, the people will elect a president. And the people will elect members of parliament,” he asserted, emphasising that the democratic process of electing both branches of the state by popular vote remains intact.
Additionally, the Attorney General addressed allegations that the constitutional amendment was being rushed without adequate consultation.
He defended the process, stating that the government is conducting extensive studies on the matter and highlighted that a wide debate has already taken place among parliamentary representatives. AG Usham detailed that the legislative process included consultations with political parties and relevant stakeholders during the parliamentary committee stage and was opened for public comment.
“It was also open to public comment. And then after the bill was passed, there is a 45 day period to make the people aware of this. So I believe there is until 4 April to discuss this. I don't believe it is being done without consultation,” he explained.
The proposed amendment, which would shorten the term of the current parliament by aligning it with the presidential election cycle, will now be put to a national referendum, as called for by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, on the 4th of next month before it can be ratified.