A study conducted by Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has indicated that the number of parliamentarians must be reduced. A total of 1,174 individuals participated and contributed to the research, which aimed to determine the opinions and views of citizens regarding the parliamentary elections.
The research carried out by HRCM indicated that 68% of the individuals partaking in the study advocate reducing the number of parliamentarians. It further revealed that while 27% are satisfied with the current number of parliamentarians, 4% are in favour of increasing the number of members.
The current parliament consists of representatives of 87 constituencies, with a parliamentarian elected for each population of 5,000 people. However, with the increasing population, six additional constituencies have been introduced to the upcoming election, with a total of 93 members to be elected. Furthermore, as per the law, opportunities will be provided to increase the number of members for the upcoming elections.
Providing an insight on the research to PSM News, Assistant Director of HRCM Mariyam Sajua disclosed that the research encompasses of public views regarding various systematic issues of the parliamentary elections. Sajua revealed that the study was formatted to include common topics, aiming to resolve the obstructions faced to obtain information systematically. Additionally, the study includes views on casting votes in the parliamentary election, what they prioritise while voting, if individuals preferred to vote for the constituency of their current or permanent address, rumours on the elections, number of female parliamentarians preferred and also their opinion on those who can influence the elections. Common questions regarding the transparency and accountability of the election were also questioned to those contributing to the research.
HRCM concluded from the research that systematic modifications are required to be brought, as many individuals who were surveyed were in favour of reducing the number of parliamentarians and also due to the Anti-Defection Bill which mandates parliamentarians to resign upon party changes.