Protest held against Parliament Privileges Act

The National Movement has held a protest in Hdh. Kulhudhuffushi against the Parliament Privileges and Powers Act.

The protest took place at 4:30 pm at Bandaara Square located south of Ameer Ameer School in Kulhudhuffushi.

The protest was attended by a large number of women.

Protesters said that Members of Parliament make promises during their campaigns but forget the promises once they are elected; and that the Parliament Privileges Act also contradicts those promises.

Placards carried by demonstrators said that the people have to reclaim control of the parliament and that the present situation of the parliament needs to be rectified.

A few men also spoke at the protest, including Vice President of National Movement Abdullah Mohamed, who also said the parliament needs to be reformed.

Abdullah Mohamed said that MPs no longer work to protect the rights of the people, and instead create conflict in the parliament.

He heavily criticised the Parliament Privileges Act and said that there are MPs who have evaded tax and failed to repay loans, but the Act does not include any procedure whereby action can be taken against them.

He said that the Maldives will not return to the right path unless the people stand up to reform the parliament.

Abdullah Mohamed said that while some MPs are loyal, the actions of the most MPs do not allow the parliament to function for the betterment of the people. He called on the MPs who voted against the Parliament Privileges Act to work towards declaring the Act void.

The protest was concluded at around 6:10 pm.