Faisal: Constitution needs amendments to make Maldives economically self-sufficient

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has said that significant constitutional reforms are required to enable the Maldives to become an economically self-sufficient nation.

In a post on X to mark the 18th anniversary of the Constitution, Faisal acknowledged that successive administrations have introduced positive developments over the years.

However, he said there is growing public concern that the country is not progressing in the desired direction. He also argued that, despite the separation of powers enshrined in the ‘green’ Constitution, one branch of the State currently exerts excessive influence over the others.

Reflecting on the period between 2004 and 2008 when the Constitution was drafted, Faisal said the process had generated high expectations among the public. He stressed the need to assess how far those aspirations have been fulfilled for the people.

"I believe that to establish a system of good governance that commands full public trust, to build an economically self-sufficient nation, and to ensure stability and progress for the people, amendments to the Constitution are essential," he said.

Faisal went on to outline a number of constitutional reforms he believes are necessary, including:

• Reducing the number of Members of Parliament to 60 and introducing an electoral system in which MPs are elected by the entire atoll.
• Strengthening judicial independence by reforming the appointment process for the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and the Chief Justice.
• Removing the President's authority to appoint the heads of independent institutions and transferring that responsibility directly to Parliament.
• Revising the broad powers granted to the President under Article 115 of the Constitution.
• Introducing a cap on the number of political appointees in ministries, government offices and state-owned enterprises, along with clear criteria governing such appointments.
• Transitioning to a fully decentralized system of governance for atolls, empowering islands and establishing special development zones to improve education, healthcare, housing, trade and employment opportunities.
• Developing a long-term national development plan and ensuring that major national projects continue regardless of changes in government.
• Expanding opportunities for Maldivians in business and the labour market.
• Launching a specialised human resource development programme that meets international standards while prioritising sectors most needed by the country.
• Mandating the State to guarantee an adequate standard of living for every citizen and establishing a system that provides housing and social security based on the circumstances of each individual and family.

The current PNC administration has already enacted major constitutional amendments using its parliamentary supermajority. These include the abolition of atoll councils and the introduction of an anti-defection law, under which Members of Parliament automatically lose their seats if they switch political parties.