Party debate shows 'good health' of Maldivian politics

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Party debate shows 'good health' of Maldivian politics

From an essay by Dr. Ahmed Shaheed

Published in the Maldivian daily newspaper Aafathis, 19 June 2001

The Maldives Culture editors are not responsible for the accuracy of this translation

A report of the special session of the Majlis that took place on Sunday, 17 June 2001.

Dr. Ahmed Shaheed, who studied in Queensland Australia, works in the Foreign Ministry and has close links with the Office of the President.

The beginning of this week has shown us a beautiful example of Democracy at work. I am referring to the Government's consultation with the Citizen's Majlis with regard to a key developmental issue. I am also referring to the process through which this case evolved.

Democracy has several meanings. It can be conceptualized in different ways/shapes. Regardless of how Democracy is conceptualized, the most important element of Democracy is ruling in consultation with the public.To respect differences in opinions and to give them an opportunity to take shape. This is the foundation on which Pluralism is established.

What we have seen is that the way the Government dealt with the issue of allowing the formation of political parties in Maldives reflects that it acted within the spirit of Democracy.

Indeed, Democracy is based on noble principles. Those noble principles are to govern in accordance with the will of the people; to maintain transparency in such government; Equality and Justice; to give importance to the betterment of the society; the protection of individual rights; the Rule of Law and the protection of Pluralism. Upon examination, it becomes clear that the government has respected all these principles in dealing with the case under consideration (formation of political parties).

This is a case where the government had the authority to act without any consultation with the people. However, the fact that the members of the Citizen's Majlis were consulted on this matter by the government is an indication that reflects the degree of respect that the government has for the will of the people.

The government's action has furthermore broadened the role of the Citizen's Majlis in the political sector. It has also demonstrated the support that the government has for the members of the Majlis. The government's action in this case is significant, mainly due to the importance of having an active Citizen's Majlis.

Furthermore, the recently held meeting of the Citizen's Majlis was conducted in a transparent manner. This is reflected by the fact that members of the public were allowed to attend the gallery during the proceedings of the Majlis. Those who were working towards the establishment of a political party were also present and were thus able to witness the session. They were able to listen to the expressed opinions of 23 members in a live atmosphere.

The opinions expressed by the members also attested to the fact that the structures of Freedom of Expression were well in place. What was heard that day in the chamber was related to important matters. Each member expressed his/her own opinion. Several questions were tabled and a comprehensive debate took place in the light of these questions.

The debate reflected the good health of the political system in the Maldives. What was under debate was an important issue. The topic of the party system is one that crops up in public discussions now and then. The pros and cons of establishing political parties do get discussed even though some such discussions take place on street junctions and small lanes. However this is the first instance in our history that this matter was referred to in a public debate at a national level, where the members had the right to express their own opinions. The fact that there exists space in the political arena for such open debates gives a positive indicator of future events.

It also proves that the democratic system in our country is stable and strong. In a democratic system, working for the betterment of the people is both an individual right and responsibility. In the light of this, we must congratulate all those who took part in Sunday's (17 June 2001) debate. Credit is due to the government, the members of the Majlis as well as those members of the public who were involved in this issue.

This is because in a perfect democracy all members of the society must have equal opportunities to participate. This can only be achieved when open debates are carried out in accordance with agreed rules in a transparent manner. What we witnessed the other day is a clear example of this.

A decision was reached after 23 members of the 48 present aired their viewpoints. Except for two of the members, those who participated in the open debate reflected their deep satisfaction of the present developmental activities and their strong conviction to respect the peace and harmony that exists in Maldives. Their views also indicated their desire to continue the present style of politics without creating chances for social rifts by permitting the introduction of political parties. In short, the members voted to advise the President not to allow the registration of a political party. When the time came for voting, 43 members decided in this manner.

It is the duty of every Maldivian citizen to thank and commend His Excellency President Maumoon Abdull Gayyoom for the way he handled this issue. We must be grateful to him for the many efforts that he continues to make in the democratization process. A further reason is the respect he has for Freedom of Expression. Working for the causes of the people is constantly on his mind. For all this we must be grateful to His Excellency the President.

I commend the honorable members of the Citizen's Majlis for their gallantry. Those who fearlessly expressed their strong dislike towards allowing the formation of political parties must indeed be commended for their valiant efforts and courage. This commendation also included those who voted in this direction. For the resolution that you passed and one that will affect the future of this nation, I congratulate and salute you! This I do with gratitude that threatens to engulf me.