Controversy Has Dogged Anti-Defection Measures in Maldives, India and Sri Lanka

The Maldives passed an anti-defection law in 2024 by amending Article 73 of the constitution, requiring MPs to lose their seats if they defect. The government led by President Mohamed Muizzu also passed the State’s Debt Bill and Fiscal Responsibility Bill, and centralised development planning. The opposition challenged the law in the Supreme Court, with former MP Ali Hussain petitioning on 24 November. The Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats joined as third parties. President Muizzu defended the amendments as critical for sovereignty and stability.

The Maldives passed an anti-defection law in 2024 by amending Article 73 of the constitution, requiring MPs to lose their seats if they defect. The government led by President Mohamed Muizzu also passed the State’s Debt Bill and Fiscal Responsibility Bill, and centralised development planning. The opposition challenged the law in the Supreme Court, with former MP Ali Hussain petitioning on 24 November. The Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats joined as third parties. President Muizzu defended the amendments as critical for sovereignty and stability.

The Maldives passed an anti-defection law in 2024 by amending Article 73 of the constitution, requiring MPs to lose their seats if they defect. The government led by President Mohamed Muizzu also passed the State’s Debt Bill and Fiscal Responsibility Bill, and centralised development planning. The opposition challenged the law in the Supreme Court, with former MP Ali Hussain petitioning on 24 November. The Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats joined as third parties. President Muizzu defended the amendments as critical for sovereignty and stability.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of anti-defection law / political controversy.