Maldivian legislature undermined democracy: Watchdog

Certain legislation passed and decisions made by the Maldives legislature are aimed at limiting fundamental rights while undermining good governance and the democratic system in the Maldives, the NGO said.

It also expressed concern with the "loss of transparency" due to the decision to conduct no-confidence motions through secret ballot.

"Amendments to the rules of the People's Majlis to adopt secret voting on matters of no confidence and impeachment threatens institutional transparency and accountability."

"The fundamental rights that will be curtailed include the right to freedom of expression, right to peaceful assembly, media freedom, the right to association and the right to establish political parties.

 

The Transparency Maldives and Maldivian Democracy Network asked the People's Majlis (legislature) to review and revise the aforementioned bills and decisions, to comply with the Constitution of the Maldives, international democratic norms and principles, and human rights standards, a statement said.