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Opposition MPs have questioned the government’s legislative process, alleging that several major bills were passed without sufficient consultation, debate or scrutiny.
Mariyam Adheela
Press Conference by MDP Parliamentary Group
MALÉ, Maldives: The Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) has accused the government of rushing major legislation through Parliament, with MPs raising concerns over the limited time given to scrutinize bills and consult relevant stakeholders.
The concerns were raised at a press meeting held today as Parliament went into recess after concluding its second session of the year.
Among the bills passed were legislation allowing the central government to take land allocated to councils, a bill concerning publication of dollar exchange-rate information, and legislation requiring dollar-earning businesses to convert 40 percent of their income.
Vaikaradhoo MP and MDP Deputy Parliamentary Group Leader Hussain Ziyad said bills were being brought forward and passed too quickly, leaving MPs insufficient time to properly debate them.
He described the recently concluded session as one that failed to meet the expected standards of parliamentary procedure.
Meanwhile, Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir also expressed concern over the speed at which bills were processed.
He alleged that bills were being sent to committees without adequate discussion or consultation with relevant experts and stakeholders
