The Parliamentary Group Leader of the People’s National Congress (PNC), Ibrahim Falah, firmly declared today that the Government has no intention of extending the presidential term, emphasizing that the Referendum Bill’s only purpose is to ensure the Maldivian people’s voice is heard on nationally important issues.
Speaking during the parliamentary debate on the Independent Institutions Committee’s report on the bill, Falah underlined that the legislation contains “nothing beyond seeking public opinion”. He cited examples such as public input on land reclamation near B. Dhonfanu, part of the environmentally significant Hanifaru Bay area.
Rejecting opposition allegations that the bill could pave the way for a 10-year presidential term, Falah reiterated the administration’s position: “This bill is very clear. The Government will not extend the presidential term. Neither the President nor the PNC supports such an idea”.
Instead, Falah explained that the PNC — which commands a supermajority in Parliament — is exploring reforms to shorten electoral cycles by holding the presidential and parliamentary elections simultaneously. He framed this move as a sacrifice made by the PNC for the sake of efficiency and national stability.
The Referendum Bill, now before Parliament, proposes that the public be consulted on several key matters: shifting the presidential oath-taking date from November 17 to November 11, combining parliamentary and presidential elections, and removing the second round of the presidential election. Beyond these, the bill mandates referendums on any constitutional changes related to fundamental rights, terms of office, the electoral system, and national territory.
Crucially, the bill also requires a referendum if the President refuses to ratify a constitutional amendment passed by Parliament, further enshrining the people’s role in shaping national governance. Referendums may be initiated either by presidential decree or through a parliamentary resolution when deemed necessary.
With this legislation, the Government is underscoring its commitment to transparent, participatory democracy—ensuring that Maldivians themselves will guide the nation’s future on critical questions.
