Husnu Al Suood@husnusuood
This may be a right time to initiate debate on reforms to the 2008 Constitution.
The following issues need to be debated:
1 Challenges inherent in the current constitutional framework, wherein a President lacking a parliamentary majority encounters practical impediments in fulfilling executive responsibilities, frequently operating under the persistent specter of impeachment. Would Nasheed- Fayyaz proposal on constitutional amendment offer a solution to this issue?
2. Reviewing the constitutional validity and appropriateness of "anti-defection" provisions, specifically the question of whether a Member of Parliament should automatically vacate their seat upon expulsion from their political party.
3. Establishing a permanent cap on the total number of members within the People's Majlis to avert continuous enlargement. Limiting the composition of the People's Majlis to 60 members.
4. Restructuring parliamentary constituencies.
5. Considering the introduction of a "Recall Vote" mechanism, facilitating citizens' removal of the President, Members of Parliament, and Supreme Court Justices from office.
6. Amending Article 115 of the Constitution to stipulate that political appointments made by the President shall not exceed a maximum of 200 positions.
7. Restricting state-owned enterprises (SOEs) strictly to their legally mandated core objectives, and explicitly prohibiting engagement in activities that could be perceived as political.
8. Prohibiting Members of Parliament from engaging in business activities or holding commercial interests during their term of office.
9. Prohibiting Members of Parliament from receiving any salaries, allowances, financial gifts that exceeds their official salary.
10. Reconstituting the Judicial Service Commission to safeguard its independence and integrity.
11. Reforming the structural composition and appointment procedures of independent state institutions.
12. Restoration of atoll councils as administrative units to govern atolls.