Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla has stated that the People's Majlis will not pass any law that violates the Constitution.

The Speaker made these remarks in response to claims by opposition MDP members that a proposed amendment to the Decentralization Act permitting the Cabinet to remove land and properties under the jurisdiction of city and island councils without compensation or consultation, is unconstitutional.

The bill was introduced at today's parliamentary sitting by independent MP for the Thulhaadhoo constituency, Abdul Hannan Adam.

Even as the member was presenting the bill, opposition MDP MP for the Kendhoo constituency, Mauroof Zakir, repeatedly called out that the amendment was unconstitutional. Consequently, the Chair issued multiple warnings to him to uphold parliamentary rules.

Speaking during the preliminary debate, Zakir stated that the bill violates both the Constitution and the decentralization system. He added that it is an amendment proposed to curtail powers granted to citizens under the Constitution.

He noted that the amendment is a cause for concern among many citizens. Calling for its withdrawal, he highlighted that over 500 citizens have signed a petition urging the bill to be pulled back.

Mauroof warned that if passed, the authority granted to citizens and local councils would end, rendering local governance pointless.

Responding to Zakir's remarks from the chair, the Speaker stated that Parliament will only pass laws aligned with the Constitution and will not enact unconstitutional legislation.

When opposition members alleged that the government was using an independent MP to push a flawed bill, the Speaker stated that submitting bills to Parliament is an opportunity open to every member.