Public Service Media (PSM) is preparing up to host a debate for candidates contesting in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
The Parliamentary Debate serves as a platform for candidates to introduce themselves and articulate their vision for their respective constituencies. What sets the debate apart is its interactive nature, allowing citizens the opportunity to pose questions directly to the candidates, thereby fostering greater engagement and transparency in the electoral process.
The 20th Parliament is poised to be the largest in history, with elections slated to take place across 93 constituencies in the Maldives. In light of this significant development, PSM has taken the decision to broadcast "Majlis 2024," ensuring widespread coverage and accessibility for voters across the nation.
A pivotal aspect of the debate is the inclusion of citizen-generated questions, marking a groundbreaking departure from traditional formats. The initiative not only empowers the electorate by giving them a voice but also provides candidates with a unique opportunity to address constituents' concerns directly.
Citizens are encouraged to submit their questions via SMS, enabling them to voice their apprehensions and gauge candidates' ability to advocate for their interests in Parliament. Questions may encompass a wide range of topics, from national issues to constituency-specific concerns, spanning areas such as legal matters, sovereignty, decentralization, social welfare, infrastructure development, and parliamentary intervention in various sectors.
Individuals can simply send their questions to 300, following the format: {MB (space) (constituency name) (question)}. The most compelling questions received will be posed to the candidates during the debate, ensuring that citizen voices are heard and pertinent issues are addressed on a national platform.