MDP accuses DRP of obstructing CSC

26 October 2007
Report: Uken

The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party MDP has accused Dhivehi Rayithunge Party, DRP of obstructing the commencement of the Maldivian Civil Service Commission,CSC.

MDP made the statement due to cancellation of the People’s Majlis held yesterday where the main agenda item was the consideration of the report of the seven member ad hoc committee elected to review the names proposed by the President for the posts of President and Vice President of the Civil Service Commission, CSC.

In a press release issued by the parliamentary group of MDP, the party expressed regret over the lack of commitment by elected and appointed members of DRP in fulfilling their obligations to the people whom they represent. The press release noted the absence of members of the cabinet or their deputies, state ministers or the appointed president’s members at the Majlis session held yesterday morning, as a clear indication of unwillingness on the part of the government to allow the functioning of the CSC. The press release also stated that the lack of quorum in the second half of Majlis session indicated DRP’s and President Maumoon’s attempts to block the formation of an independent CSC.

MDP stated that the party would like see unbiased independent members free of political influence in charge of CSC.

When Velidhoo News contacted Ibrahim Shafiu Chief Spokesperson of DRP to find out why DRP should obstruct the commencing of the work of CSC, he replied that it is not in the interest of DRP to obstruct CSC in any manner.

“There is no reason why DRP should obstruct CSC, when they talk about obstructing look at who voted, all DRP members voted unanimously, there was no loss of quorum that day, we could have made it that way if we wanted to obstruct, there are many tactics used by members to get the Majlis approval, and many delay tactics used, we are seeing these tactics now, what they are saying does not have weight” said Shafiu.
President’s Member Shafiu also noted that the absence most members were because these members also attended the ceremony, on behalf of the people, held to inaugurate the Ghazee School of Hulhumale’. The members had to attend the ceremony as it was held in honor of the visiting Singaporean President. This was required on behalf of the people of the Maldives noted Shafiu.