The government has proposed an amendment to the Political Party Act to fine for both individuals and their respective political parties for violations. This amendment, introduced by Parliamentarian Abdul Latheef Mohamed on behalf of the government, aims to enhance accountability and reduce legal violations among political parties.
The government cites the need to revise state budget funding for political party operations and to emphasize the responsibility of political parties in adhering to the law. The amendment also stipulates that the current political party registration form will now be submitted according to a model set by the Election Commission of Maldives, rather than being included in the Act's schedule.
Additionally, the amendment removes the provision allowing candidates who have contested in a political party's primary to run in other capacities. It also adjusts funding allocations, proposing that political parties receive between 0.1% and 0.2% of the estimated annual budget revenue.
Fines for individuals violating the Political Party Act will range from USD 1,953 to USD 4,882.81, while their political parties will face a fine of USD 6,510.42. Currently, only the individual violator is fined. The new rules will be enacted within 30 days of the amendment's approval.