The Democrats Return to Referendum Rhetoric, Tout Parliamentary System

The Democrats have renewed calls for a referendum on adopting a parliamentary system of governance ahead of the second round of the presidential election. MP Hassan Afeef raised the topic during a parliamentary debate, arguing that the current system does not work and a proper parliamentary system is needed. He noted that no Maldivian president has won a second term since 2008, and coalitions for run-off victories are formed without direct consent. The Democrats' presidential candidate Ilyas Labeeb also spoke, saying it is time for a constitutional referendum. In 2007, a referendum was held with over 60% supporting a presidential system, written into the 2008 constitution. Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom supported presidential, while Mohamed Nasheed pushed for parliamentary. The rift between The Democrats and President Solih is attributed to Solih's refusal to commit to a referendum. Now, Solih, with a 7% deficit, needs strong support from The Democrats for the second round win.

The Democrats have renewed calls for a referendum on adopting a parliamentary system of governance ahead of the second round of the presidential election. MP Hassan Afeef raised the topic during a parliamentary debate, arguing that the current system does not work and a proper parliamentary system is needed. He noted that no Maldivian president has won a second term since 2008, and coalitions for run-off victories are formed without direct consent. The Democrats' presidential candidate Ilyas Labeeb also spoke, saying it is time for a constitutional referendum. In 2007, a referendum was held with over 60% supporting a presidential system, written into the 2008 constitution. Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom supported presidential, while Mohamed Nasheed pushed for parliamentary. The rift between The Democrats and President Solih is attributed to Solih's refusal to commit to a referendum. Now, Solih, with a 7% deficit, needs strong support from The Democrats for the second round win.

The Democrats have renewed calls for a referendum on adopting a parliamentary system of governance ahead of the second round of the presidential election. MP Hassan Afeef raised the topic during a parliamentary debate, arguing that the current system does not work and a proper parliamentary system is needed. He noted that no Maldivian president has won a second term since 2008, and coalitions for run-off victories are formed without direct consent. The Democrats' presidential candidate Ilyas Labeeb also spoke, saying it is time for a constitutional referendum. In 2007, a referendum was held with over 60% supporting a presidential system, written into the 2008 constitution. Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom supported presidential, while Mohamed Nasheed pushed for parliamentary. The rift between The Democrats and President Solih is attributed to Solih's refusal to commit to a referendum. Now, Solih, with a 7% deficit, needs strong support from The Democrats for the second round win.

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