Abdul Raheem: Bills expedited to complete works at the speed desire by public

Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla, citing the people gave main ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) supermajority in the Parliament to complete the works at the speed the desire, has attributed this the main reason why works on bills are being expedited.

Abdul Raheem made the remark while concluding Monday’s parliamentary sitting in response to arguments raised by opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) lawmakers.

While debating on the bill to empower the President to appoint president and vice president to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) – MDP’s Parliamentary Group leader, South Hithadhoo MP Ibrahim Nazil accused the PNC-dominated Parliament of deciding on matters as instructed by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

“Only one nomination is made by the President. Then approving is forced. Is this the best way to do this, or is it better if the Parliament undertakes this task,” he questioned.

In response, Speaker Abdul Raheem said the PNC-supermajority works at the speed desired by the people, adding the public gave the supermajority to the ruling party to carry out parliamentary works at the speed they desire. He cited this as the reason why debates on bills are proceeding at a fast pace.

He further said the people gave the parliament supermajority to PNC in order to pave way for a parliament that will cooperate and provide assistance in fulfilling the electoral pledges made by President Muizzu.

He assured the public that the incumbent parliament would accomplish this goal.

“I am saying this for the attention of the public and not with the intention of participating in the floor debate. However, this is something I believe the people should know,” he added.

Opposition MDP lawmakers have also previously raised concerns regarding the works of the 20^th parliamentary assembly proceeding at a fast pace. In this regard, they have expressed concern over bills being forwarded to committees without extensive debate and bills being passed as it is, without any changes. Notably, committees have passed bills on the same day they were forwarded.