In a recent development, the General Committee of the People’s Majlis has approved an amendment to its regulations, aiming to suspend parliamentary sessions during the upcoming Ramadan month. This move also entails concluding the current session by the end of February.
The proposed changes were introduced by Abdulla Rifau, commonly known as Bochey, a member of the People’s National Congress (PNC) representing the South Maafannu constituency. Rifau suggested revisions to Article 24 of the Majlis regulations, which currently delineates the parliamentary calendar into three sessions:
- First Session: February 1 – May 15
- Second Session: June 1 – August 15
- Third Session: October 1 – November 30
Under the new proposal, the schedule would be adjusted as follows:
- First Session: January 1 – February 28/29
- Second Session: April 1 – July 31
- Third Session: September 1 – November 30
This adjustment is designed to accommodate a recess during Ramadan, reflecting the cultural and religious significance of the month in the Maldives.
However, the amendment has faced opposition from members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) present in the committee. They have expressed concerns regarding the proposed changes, though specific objections were not detailed at this time.
The proposal will now proceed to the full Majlis for further deliberation and voting. If ratified, this will mark a significant shift in the parliamentary calendar, aligning legislative activities more closely with the nation’s religious observances.
This development comes amidst a series of legislative adjustments in the Maldives, including recent constitutional amendments and discussions on allowances for Women’s Development Committees during Ramadan.
As the Majlis prepares to vote on this proposal, stakeholders and citizens alike are keenly observing the potential impacts on legislative processes and the broader political landscape.
