The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has announced its intention to file a no-confidence motion against Home Minister Ali Ihusan, citing allegations of data misuse from the Department of National Registration (DNR) to fraudulently inflate the membership of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC).
The decision was made during an MDP Parliamentary Group meeting following complaints about individuals being added to the PNC’s membership register without their knowledge. Critics claim forged forms were used in the process, raising concerns over the legitimacy of the ruling party’s membership records.
A particularly notable incident involves MDP Parliament Member for Vikaradhoo, Hussain Ziyad, whose name was added to the PNC’s membership without his consent. The Elections Commission (EC) later rejected the invalid form submitted on his behalf.
In response to the accusations, Home Minister Ihusan has categorically denied any involvement in the submission of fraudulent forms to the EC. Meanwhile, the Elections Commission has stated that it is actively verifying the membership forms submitted by political parties.
Filing a no-confidence motion requires the support of at least 10 Members of Parliament. If the motion is submitted and subsequently passed by a majority, it would lead to the dismissal of the minister.
Although the MDP has resolved to move forward with the motion, its influence in the 20th parliament assembly has waned, with only 12 sitting members currently representing the party. This makes the success of the motion dependent on garnering additional support from other parties or independent MPs.
