Supreme Court Intervention Eases Pressure on Muizzu in Maldives Impeachment Saga
- Posted on February 9, 2024
- Politics
- By Arijit Dutta
- 449 Views
The Maldives Supreme Court suspended a recent amendment aiming to simplify the impeachment process against President Mohamed Muizzu. This move came after the opposition's plan to impeach Muizzu earlier. The amendment aimed to lower the threshold for impeachment, but the Supreme Court intervened to maintain the status quo.
In
a significant development for Maldives
President Mohamed Muizzu, the Supreme Court intervened by suspending a
recent amendment aimed at facilitating impeachment proceedings against him.
This decision, reported by local media, offers Muizzu respite amid growing
political tensions.
Last
month, the opposition-controlled Parliament had altered its standing orders to
ease the submission of an impeachment motion. This change lowered the required
number of votes, alarming the government. The Attorney General’s Office swiftly
filed a case seeking to suspend the amendment, pending a final ruling.
The
amendment's backstory involves a series of political maneuvers. Following seven
lawmakers' resignations to join Muizzu's administration, the opposition
adjusted Parliament's rules to their advantage. This alteration would have
reduced the threshold for impeachment, potentially endangering Muizzu's
presidency.
The court's decision to suspend the amendment reflects the judiciary's role in upholding constitutional norms. Justices cited the importance of maintaining the status quo amidst the political turmoil. However, dissenting voices argued that the delay in filing the case weakened the grounds for the injunction.
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Beyond
domestic politics, Muizzu's presidency has strained international relations,
notably with India. His pro-China stance and anti-India rhetoric have sparked
tensions. India, a longstanding ally, has expressed concerns over Muizzu's
policies, particularly regarding military cooperation and strategic alliances.
Despite
India's objections, Muizzu's administration continues to deepen ties with
China, raising eyebrows in New Delhi. The presence of a Chinese research vessel
in Maldives waters has heightened regional tensions, with India closely
monitoring the situation.
In
this complex geopolitical landscape, the Maldives Supreme Court's intervention
offers a temporary reprieve for Muizzu, while the broader implications for
domestic and international politics remain uncertain.