Maumoon not elected to head government while running DRP – Suood

15 November 2007
Report: Soodh

Member of Special Majlis for Addu Husnu Al Suood has said that President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom is committing a constitutional offense by discharging the responsibilities of his office while being the Leader of a political party.

He made the statement to Velidhoo News on being asked on the importance of an interim government after the completion of constitutional reform.

Acclaimed lawyer Husnu Al Suood said that the people of Maldives did not elect President Gayoom to discharge the responsibilities of his office whilst being attached to a political party. Suood further said that the President Gayoom is heading the government whilst being the leader of Dhivehi Rahyithunge Party, DRP as well. He accused President Gayoom of working to promote the political interests of DRP whilst in office.

Suood said under the present constitution, a united government is not required. He said if new chapter is drafted and passed by the Majlis, then the government will be obliged to form an interim government. Suood further said that in present circumstances he has no confidence whether the government would set up such an interim government.

Special Majlis Member for Sennu Atoll, Husnu Al Suood said that such an interim government where the powers of the government may be shared can only established if certain powers are included in the revised constitution.

“I don’t think that the Chief Spokesperson of the DRP can say that President Gayoom was elected to establish a united government” said Suood.

MDP has called on political parties to establish parties to join in to establish a united government. All parties except DRP have indicated that they support MDP in the formation of such a government.