MDP Condemns President Muizzu's Attempts to Undermine the Constitution and Subvert Judicial Independence

The Maldivian Democratic Party strongly condemns President Mohamed Muizzu's actions to dismantle Maldives' constitutionally guaranteed separation of powers. These actions represent a blatant attempt to undermine judicial independence and consolidate power.

Following the 20th parliament's passing of a bill to amend the constitution such that members of parliament are liable to lose their seats upon resigning or being removed from the political party under which they were elected, a constitutional complaint was filed with the Supreme Court of the Maldives. This complaint challenges the legality of passing such a bill without a referendum. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing this case, with the first hearing held on the 17th of February.

Today, President Muizzu removed Uz. Mohamed Sameer from his position on the judicial oversight body, The Judicial Services Commission (JSC), replacing him with Yazmeed Mohamed. Yazmeed was a candidate for the People's National Congress (PNC) during the latest parliamentary elections and previously served on the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) during President Yameen's administration. The timing and nature of this appointment is deeply concerning especially as Yazmeed has no experience in the legal field, and appears downright unqualified for this crucial role. Additionally, the ruling party has submitted an amendment to the Court's Act to reduce the number of Supreme Court justices while court proceedings have commenced for a case of significant importance.

Reports have also surfaced that PNC members of Parliament have been instructed to submit complaints against sitting judges of the Supreme Court. Given the JSC's mandate to investigate judicial conduct and its authority to appoint and remove judges, the MDP sees the President's recent change to the membership of the JSC as a clear attempt to threaten and subvert the country's highest judicial authority during a highly sensitive constitutional case.

With the powers of the Executive and a majority in Parliament, rendering any new appointment to the judiciary will be handpicked by President Muizzu and likely rubber-stamped by a parliament that has been stripped of any ability to hold the administration accountable.

President Muizzu's administration has thus far been characterized by continuous government overreach, systematic attempts to consolidate power unto himself, and the dismantling of democratic norms across the board. The President has ignored continued calls by opposition parties, civil service organizations and citizens to respect the separation of powers, uphold constitutional principles and continues to pursue a path of authoritarianism and political repression.

The MDP calls on all Maldivians and the international community to stand vigilant against these blatant attacks on our democratic institutions. We remain committed to safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring the independence of the judiciary.