The resolution aimed at addressing the regular increase in the number of parliament members every five years has been sent to the Parliamentary Committee on Independent Institutions. the resolution introduced by Parliamentarian for Baarashu constituency Ibrahim Shujau seeks to tackle concerns over the escalating size of the parliament with each new administration.
The resolution was passed to be sent to the Independent Institutions Committee by a unanimous vote of 78 members. It highlights the need for the Parliament to find a solution to the increasing numbers of parliamentarians in proportion to the population growth.
Shujau emphasised that the public has expressed growing apprehension regarding this trend, particularly due to the increasing financial burden it places on the state. The resolution notes that the number of parliamentarians has risen significantly across four parliamentary elections, from 77 members in the 17th Parliament to 93 members in the current session.
Shujau pointed out although the country’s population growth rate has been slow for the past 30 years, the estimated future population growth rate would lead to an increase in parliamentary seats with each election. He called for amendments to Articles 71 and 72 of the Constitution, as well as changes to the Constituency Determination Act.
Data shows that the 17th Parliament of the Maldives had 77 members, which increased to 85 members in the 18th Parliament, 87 members in the 19th Parliament, and 93 members in the current 20th Parliament.