Fayyaz Ismail says the government’s power has grown beyond what the Constitution intended

Former MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail says the government has become too powerful, adding that this is not the change envisioned by the Constitution.

Fayyaz made the remarks at a rally held by former President Mohamed Nasheed in Galolhu, Male' City, on Monday evening as part of Nasheed’s campaign for the MDP chairmanship.

At the rally, Fayyaz said the gains achieved through the drafting of the Constitution were being eroded. He said the biggest concern now is that every five years people fear losing their rights and having to fight for them again in a difficult environment.

Fayyaz said the powers of the Maldivian government have become too strong. He said this was not the change the Constitution sought to bring, and that what the country needs is leadership that serves the people and works closely with them.

He said Parliament must protect the people and uphold their rights, and that the courts must deliver justice without discrimination or influence. However, he said this does not appear to be the case today.

He said the MDP must work to bring about major changes given the current situation. One of the party’s biggest setbacks, he said, was the departure of many members.

“It was a real loss for us when so many people left the MDP. And when our government changed, we were not able to guide the people, even when I was chairperson, we could not do that. One of the main reasons is the division among us,” Fayyaz said.

Fayyaz said there is no safety unless the MDP unites. He said internal divisions have now converged and the party’s future is clearer.

He said the MDP needs a strong and popular leader to bring about major change, describing this as a sensitive moment in the country’s history and in the life of its democracy.

“Right now, keeping the MDP strong is one of the most important things we can do for the people and for future generations. That is why I am working to change this country, hand in hand with President Nasheed,” he said.

Fayyaz said he does not believe efforts to change the country will succeed unless Nasheed takes over the MDP, adding that he was speaking from experience.

Last week, Nasheed and Fayyaz announced proposed changes to the system of government and the Constitution. They also announced that Nasheed will contest for the MDP chairmanship and Fayyaz will contest for the presidency.

The debate on changing the system of government has already taken place within the MDP. Nasheed has long advocated for a parliamentary system.