:: Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

In the 6^th Reform Debate held in Ghiyaasudheen last night, the backdrop was clearly set in support of the Maldivian Democratic Party, to highlight the role MDP is playing in bringing formidable changes to the political sphere of the Maldives. This act was carried out by the organisers to show their defiance to the restrictions being applied to these gatherings which appears to be gaining momentum from one meeting to the other.

The session was opened by Mr. Furahani Shuaib Ali, the organiser of the debate. After thanking everyone attending or listening to the debate, he gave a brief on the agenda of the night, which were:

Freedom and democracy; a basic right of every citizen
Fundamental rights of the people
Right to a free vote and cancellation or disqualification of the vote
Freedom of the press

Mr. Hussain Zamir was the first speaker tonight who expressed his concerns about influence of people like Atoll Minister Hameed in changing the outcome of elections in the islands by forcing people to vote for government candidates. According to him people in the islands are afraid to practice their free will in elections due to these illicit activities carried out by Island Chiefs on the order of Mr. Hameed. Furthermore, to express his dismay over public services in the islands such as his, he also said that in his island people have to pay Mrf 250 Rufiyaa to consult or see a doctor, whilst in Male’ it is only Mrf 10. He stated that this disparity is unjustified and a clear sign of the failure to provide adequate public services by this government.

Another regular at these debate meetings, Hon. Ibrahim Ismail, Special Majlis Member for Male’ discussed the complex and rather odd justice system of the Maldives in his explanation of the importance of separation of powers.

Another participant, commented on the freedom of the press and media in the Maldives. He said that the failure to report some of the biggest events such as the 20^th September 2003 in the Maldives media is clear evidence of their incompetence. He added that they have betrayed the nation in their capacity as reporters and media personnel.

Reeko Moosa also spoke of the need to understand the rights of the individual and to courageously work toward protecting these rights. He also said the youths have been specifically deprived of their rights in the Maldives.

Moosa also highlighted the fact that international human rights organisations do not protect those who express their conscience and have to spend long years in prison. Moosa then went onto add that unless the sessions of the Special Majlis due to be convened shortly, is reported to the public by media, there is no need for the media in the Maldives.

Another regular speaker, Mr. Fulhu also complained about the strict control of media by the government, especially that there is no private TV or Radio station as well as the fact that all major papers are owned by cabinet Ministers is a major social injustice. Furthermore, he said it is really sad that the media does not report these reform debates. He believes that private sector must be given licenses for TV and Radio channels as well as introduction of free newspapers.

Hon. Qasim Ibrahim, Special Majlis Member for Ari Atoll also spoke in support of separation of powers; The Executive, The Legislature and The Judiciary. He further expressed that there can be no justification for the current setup whereby The President can appoint members to the Parliament. And, that there are some people who have taken 3 different oaths as per the constitution, to serve the country as Member of the Parliament, as Members of the cabinet, as Member of the Special Majlis. He further said that emphasis should be on protecting the rights of the people and not those of the government.

Another participant, Mr. Mohamed Moosa suggested that we mend the behaviours of those in powerful positions before we amend the constitution of the Maldives. This is strictly in reference to the extreme level of corruption and abuse of power by Gayyoom’s government ministers and officials. He also condemned arbitrary arrests and called for the rule of law to be implemented in the Maldives.

Tonight also some speakers mentioned the need for larger halls for these debates to be held. Government promised the facilities but are not keeping to the promise, complained Mrs. Zuhaira in this context.

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