Former Kendhoo MP and lawyer Ali Hussain has filed a constitutional case with the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn recently introduced amendments to the Constitution. The court has yet to decide whether to accept the case.
Hussain stated that he submitted the petition because he believes the amendments violate the Constitution and its fundamental principles.
One of the controversial amendments stipulates that a parliament member elected through a specific political party will lose their seat if they change parties, are dismissed, or leave the party during their term. Similarly, independent MPs would lose their seats if they join a political party while serving their term.
Another amendment modified the requirement for a public referendum when changing significant constitutional articles affecting citizens. It now mandates a referendum to amend this stipulation itself.
Additionally, the article concerning the Exclusive Economic Zone was revised, requiring changes to be made only through a public referendum.
An amendment was also introduced requiring parliamentary approval for the presence of any foreign military personnel in the country, except for training purposes.
These amendments were proposed by Mohamed Shahid, an MP from the ruling People’s National Congress representing Hulhudhoo.
