Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Nasheed has stepped aside from presiding over Parliament sessions till the end of a no-confidence motion against him.

Parliament's Media Director Hassan Ziyau revealed to One Online today that Speaker Nasheed had sent a letter to the Consul General of Parliament Fathimath Niusha, excusing himself from presiding over the Parliament.

In the letter, Speaker Nasheed noted that he will be stepping aside from the responsibilities until the end of the no-confidence motion which has been submitted by members of the ruling MDP.

He further highlighted that this is an option presented to him by Clause 44 (A) of the Parliament Regulations.

The clause notes that if the Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the Parliament excuses themselves from their responsibilities. a member(s) to preside over the parliament must be appointed by the Speaker according to Cluase 83 (B) of the Constitution.

In his letter, Speaker Nasheed further noted that he will remain committed to the remainder of his responsibilities as much as the regulations allow it.