Parliament accepts PNC resolution demanding action over illegal activities by political parties

The Parliament on Monday accepted a resolution submitted by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), demanding authorities to stop and take action against alleged unconstitutional and illegal activities carried out by “some political parties.”

The PNC used its supermajority to have the Holhudhoo MP Abdul Sattar Mohamed’s bill accepted into the Parliament on Monday morning with a majority vote of 41-8. It has now been sent to the Independent Institutions Committee for review.

Sattar’s resolution states that while the Constitution grants all citizens with the freedom of speech and expression, as well as the freedom to establish and operate political parties, these rights must be exercised with respect to Islamic principles and the reputation and rights of others.

He said that illegal activities by political parties was causing inconveniences for citizens, and loss of public order.

He asked for the opinion of the Parliament regarding stopping such illegal activities and taking legal action against the perpetrators.

The resolution also urges authorities to expedite action against individuals involved in illegal political party activities.

The resolution comes the same day the Elections Commission (EC) imposed a MVR 100,000 fine on former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s People’s National Front (PNF), citing repeated violations of the Political Parties Act and the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act during its nightly protests in the Maldivian capital.