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Former President Mohamed Nasheed says the current presidential system is hindering public welfare and national development, arguing that a parliamentary system would provide better governance and accountability.
Mariyam Adheela
MALE’: Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called for the Maldives to shift from a presidential to a parliamentary system of government, saying the current system is preventing citizens from enjoying greater prosperity and better public services.
In a special interview with Sangu TV ahead of Republic Day, Nasheed highlighted what he described as shortcomings in the country’s presidential system and said concentrating state powers in one political camp could weaken democratic governance.
He said that when the President’s party holds a parliamentary majority, power across state institutions can become concentrated in the hands of one side, creating conditions that could lead to authoritarian rule.
Nasheed also warned that such an arrangement could limit opportunities for consultation on important national decisions and allow political influence to extend into the judiciary.
He said these circumstances could undermine the fair delivery of public services and prevent citizens from receiving equal treatment.
As a long term solution, Nasheed proposed adopting a parliamentary system in which the responsibilities of the head of state and the head of government are separated.
Under the proposed arrangement, the head of government would be directly elected by the people, while the powers of the head of state would be separated from the day to day administration of the government.
Nasheed said such a system would be more suitable for the Maldives’ future and would help strengthen democratic governance.
