President requests Majlis advice over parting from Commonwealth

President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s request over advise on the extent of involvement Maldives should have with Commonwealth has been sent to National Security Committee of People’s Majlis for evaluation after debate this Tuesday.

40 lawmakers voted to send the request to National Security Committee for evaluation, while two voted against it.

The issue had also been debated over in People’s Majlis back in July 20.

The recent request sent by President Yameen says that his Cabinet had discussed the country’s performance as a member of Commonwealth.

“I find it right to consider your opinion as representatives of the people of Maldives in People’s Majlis, and request your decision over the issue,” wrote President Yameen.

Speaking during the debate over the issue, North Machangolhi MP Mariya Ahmed Didi said that the people of Maldives had been aware Commonwealth was formed as part of a colonial rule over countries even when Maldives had joined Commonwealth. But had become a member party because of the various benefits such a membership would allow the country.

“What do we all member countries of Commonwealth say? We are part of it to uphold Commonwealth’s values – or a certain set of values. Therefore, what they ask for, what we all decide, the decisions made as a whole by all countries of Commonwealth is for a better governance for the people. Upholding the law. Being aware of human rights and being respectful of human rights. Holding an independent and fair election that is transparent to everyone. These are the Commonwealth values,” said Mariya.

Milandhoo MP Hassan Mufdhy Abdul Gadir said that he was in support of leaving Commonwealth. He said that the work of Commonwealth should not be to interfere in civil affairs of a small country.

“I believe that such organizations should be respectful of our civil affairs and how we wish to proceed. And provide us with full support and cooperation within the set rules and regulations,” said Mufdhy.

West Mafannu MP Mohamed Falah said that he was sad the country was leaving Commonwealth after 34 years as a member country. He condemned the decision to leave Commonwealth and said that countries joined such organizations “because they cannot stand on their own two feet.”

“The only income we receive is from tourism. But that too comes from Commonwealth, from out of Maldives. We are using that money. What we are seeing is leaving such organizations, and going to Arab countries and begging for some money,” said Falah.

He said that Commonwealth was concerned over lack of human rights protection in the country.

Many lawmakers aligned with the government voiced out in approval of the decision to leave Commonwealth.