Member of Parliament for Baarah constituency Ibrahim Shujau has called on the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to prioritise resolving its internal issues instead of opposing the move to hold presidential and parliamentary elections concurrently.

He made the remarks during the parliamentary debate on the constitutional amendment bill seeking to align the presidential election with the People’s Majlis election.

Shujau said the MDP’s opposition to holding the two elections together stems from fears of defeat in the upcoming presidential election. He argued that rather than focusing on blocking electoral reforms, the party should first work to strengthen its internal structure and public support.

Referring to recent political developments, Shujau said public support for the MDP has declined following the election of Hanimadhoo constituency MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa as the party’s chairperson.

“Instead of opposing the proposal to hold elections concurrently, the party should focus on fixing its internal issues. In a multi-party system, parties must strengthen themselves internally to remain relevant. This reform has been brought forward within the constitutional and legal framework,” Shujau said.

Shujau further noted that holding presidential and parliamentary elections concurrently would significantly reduce State expenditure, adding that reducing Government spending is a key priority of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. He said the country’s current economic stability is the result of the President’s disciplined fiscal policies.

Shujau made the remarks as the People’s Majlis on Tuesday passed the constitutional amendment bill to align presidential and parliamentary elections. The amendment was approved with the support of 72 members.