One of the most controversial 'features' of the 'old' parliament is the presence of un-elected MPs who are nominated by the President and serve at his/her pleasure. I would not go into the pros and cons of such appointments since the issue is non relevant at this point in time as our new constitution does not allow for such appointments.
There is a lot of talk on the streets on whether or not Anni can appoint his own 'team of MPs' to replace the existing nominated MP's.
Clause 294 of the Constitution provides for the continuance of the People's Majlis 'until such time as the first elections of the People's Majlis under this Constitution' (quote from unofficial English translation) is held.
The interpretation of the clause is that the Majlis in its old composition shall remain till the next elections. It is by no means a 'protection' for the persons currently serving in the Majlis but for their positions and by virtue of the fact that (1) the nominated MPs are part of the old Majlis and (2) they serve at the pleasure of the President (who ever it may be), Anni does have the liberty to appoint his own MPs after taking oath as President of the Maldives.
Showing posts with label elections. Show all posts
Showing posts with label elections. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Dawn of a new day
Yesterday we voted in the first multi-party presidential elections in our country's history. Today we wake up to a new dawn of promises, affectionately known as aneh dhivehi raaje or the 'other' Maldives.
The country is in need of change and with the new constitution in place, change was certainly coming. Although yesterday a significant majority decided that it was not only the system that needed to change and that we needed a new leader as well to bring about change.
Few years ago, it was unthinkable that a person from outside the ranks of the government could succeed Mr. Gayoom as the leader of this nation. It was seen as an impossible task for someone to transform from being an activist to a political leader.
Anni has today proved that the 'then' unthinkable is in fact achievable. He has successfully transformed himself from being a political activist to the leader of a nation, much in need for political, sociological and economic stability. With the coalition in place it would seem that he is well positioned to provide the country with just that.
Although, a lot depends on the success and the strength of the coalition. I am somewhat skeptical about the sustainability of a coalition that is formed with factions of very difference schools of thought. For one, how well the liberal democratic ideas of MDP sits with the conservative mindset of Adaalath remains to be seen.
As a result of us having a presidential system of government, the mandate lies with Anni himself. Not the coalition. Anni has to be a strong leader able to make tough choices if he is to hold his coalition together. But does he need the coalition to be together? Perhaps not! Although a lot will depend on the result of the Parliamentary Elections to be held in February. A power shift within the coalition itself is bound to happen based on the winnings in February. The stronger showing MDP can make in the elections, the lesser will be its need for the coalition.
Lets wait and see how it all unfolds. Interesting it shall certainly be!
The country is in need of change and with the new constitution in place, change was certainly coming. Although yesterday a significant majority decided that it was not only the system that needed to change and that we needed a new leader as well to bring about change.
Few years ago, it was unthinkable that a person from outside the ranks of the government could succeed Mr. Gayoom as the leader of this nation. It was seen as an impossible task for someone to transform from being an activist to a political leader.
Anni has today proved that the 'then' unthinkable is in fact achievable. He has successfully transformed himself from being a political activist to the leader of a nation, much in need for political, sociological and economic stability. With the coalition in place it would seem that he is well positioned to provide the country with just that.
Although, a lot depends on the success and the strength of the coalition. I am somewhat skeptical about the sustainability of a coalition that is formed with factions of very difference schools of thought. For one, how well the liberal democratic ideas of MDP sits with the conservative mindset of Adaalath remains to be seen.
As a result of us having a presidential system of government, the mandate lies with Anni himself. Not the coalition. Anni has to be a strong leader able to make tough choices if he is to hold his coalition together. But does he need the coalition to be together? Perhaps not! Although a lot will depend on the result of the Parliamentary Elections to be held in February. A power shift within the coalition itself is bound to happen based on the winnings in February. The stronger showing MDP can make in the elections, the lesser will be its need for the coalition.
Lets wait and see how it all unfolds. Interesting it shall certainly be!
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