A case has been filed with High Court seeking to revoke several articles in the Anti-Defection Act which mandates the resignation of members of parliament upon floor crossing.

The High Court said the case was filed by a private individual, however they did not disclose the exact date of submission.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu ratified the Anti-Defection Act back in April.

The Anti-Defection Act was introduced in order to hold the Members of Parliament accountable to their constituents whilst necessitating that they remain dedicated to the political views upon which they were elected. Further, the Act also ensures that the Members are insulated from political and financial influences and that the Maldivian citizens’ faith in the Majlis as an institution remains intact.

Apart from lawmakers, the new law also governs atoll and island councilors, members of Women's Development Committees as well; all of whom would be required to resign from their political positions should they switch their political parties.

For the seats vacated owing to defection or floor crossing, the Elections Commission (EC) is mandated to hold by-elections to elect new members as per the law, and the members who lose their seats have the right to contend as well.