The MDP, in collaboration with the Democrats, has obtained the support of 34 members, including representatives from both parties. The motion for impeachment was disrupted yesterday due to chaos in the Maldivian parliament. The MDP has also decided to deny approval to the home minister, Ali Ihusan, and the defense minister, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, if government lawmakers continue to disrupt the proceedings.
Following a skirmish between political leaders inside the parliament, heavy police security has been deployed to ensure the safety of today’s session. Videos shared by the media outlet show police personnel assembling outside the parliament complex. The violence in parliament occurred during a key vote on parliamentary approval for the Muizzu government.
A fight broke out between MDP MP Isa and PNC MP Abdullah Shaheem Abdul Hakeem, with footage showing physical altercations between the two. One video shows Shaheem gripping Isa’s leg and the two falling together, while another viral video shows Isa kicking Shaheem’s neck and pulling his hair. One member of parliament was reportedly injured and taken to an ambulance.
The ruling coalition parties, the PNC and the PPP, released a statement expressing concern over the refusal to approve the ministers, stating that it hampers the delivery of public services. However, Chief Advisor to Muizzu and PNC Chairman Abdul Raheem Abdullah criticized the refusal as irresponsible. Recently, two opposition parties, the MDP and the Democrats, criticized the current regime’s anti-India pivot, deeming it detrimental to the country’s long-term development. They emphasized the importance of stability and security in the Indian Ocean for the Maldives and called for consecutive governments to maintain good relations with development partners for the benefit of the people.
