Committee decides again to establish secret voting for no-confidence motions

The Parliament’s General Committee held an emergency meeting last night, and passed to establish secret voting at the Parliament for no-confidence motions.

The amendments, proposed by Baarah MP Mohamed Shifaz to Article 167 (a), and additions to Articles 173 and 177 of the Standing Orders, were passed by the General Committee on a previous occasion as well.

That decision, however, was annulled because in the event that the Committee Chairman is absent, meetings must be initiated by the Deputy Chairman - and this rule was not followed.

Last night’s meeting was chaired by the Committee’s Deputy Chairman, Kudahuvadhoo MP Ahmed Amir.

The emergency motion was signed by three members of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

The motion to establish secret voting for no-confidence motions at the Parliament was passed with votes in favour by four MDP members present at the meeting. The meeting was attended by eight members.

Committee members who voted against the motion were Gemanafushi MP Ilham Ahmed, Nilandhoo MP Abdul Muhsin Hameed, Vaikaradhoo MP Ali Arif.

Chairperson Amir was required to abstain, as he can participate only if equal votes are received in favour and against a motion.

This decision was passed due to failure by pro-government members to attend the Committee meeting last night.

Kendhoo MP and Leader of Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Ahmed Thasmeen Ali and Medhu-henveiru MP Ali Azim were absent from the meeting, while Committee Chairperson Maafannu-hulhangu MP Abdullah Abdul Raheem is on vacation and out of the country.

The amendment to make voting on no-confidence motions against the President and Ministers secret votes has now been submitted to the Parliament.

The amendment will come into effect depending on results of votes at the Parliament.