Chaos in Maldives Parliament: The Maldives Parliament descended into chaos as government MPs from the PPM/PNC party disrupted proceedings, leading to a physical altercation between members. The disturbance occurred during a crucial vote on parliamentary approval for the Muizzu government, causing a temporary halt in parliamentary activities.Parliamentary Brawl UnfoldsDramatic scenes unfolded in the Maldives Parliament, with reports of a brawl involving MDP MP Isa and PNC MP Abdullah Shaheem Abdul Hakeem. Videos circulated on social media depicted the altercation, including moments of physical confrontation between the two MPs. In one video, Shaheem was seen gripping Isas leg, while another showed Isa kicking Shaheems neck and pulling his hair. The situation escalated, leading to other members intervening to separate the feuding MPs. One parliamentarian was reportedly injured and taken to an ambulance.Clash erupted in the parliament of #Maldives.The opposition MPs are protesting against the Chinese puppet @MMuizzu gvt for his anti India policies.Muizzu is trying to silence the opposition by force. Hope @UN is watching!! pic.twitter.com/B1HDEsfSzM— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) January 28, 2024Disruption of Ministerial Approval VoteThe parliamentary session, scheduled for a crucial vote on ministerial approval for the Muizzu government, faced disruption as several PNC members barricaded the House. The protesters argued that approving the ministers would hinder progress and demanded the resignation of the Speaker of Parliament.Ruling Coalitions ResponseThe ruling coalition parties, PNC and PPP, released a statement characterizing the ministers rejection as an obstacle to public service delivery. Chief Advisor to Muizzu and PNC Chairman Abdul Raheem Abdullah defended the ministers right to reappointment, even without authorization, criticizing the refusal to approve them as irresponsible.Political ContextThis incident comes amid recent opposition by two Maldivian parties against the current regimes perceived anti-India pivot. The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and The Democrats issued a joint press statement expressing concern over the shift in foreign policy, deeming it extremely detrimental to the countrys long-term development. The opposition emphasized the importance of stability and security in the Indian Ocean for the Maldives and urged consecutive governments to collaborate with all development partners.The parliamentary brawl and disruptions highlight the political tensions in the Maldives, with clashes between opposing factions affecting crucial legislative processes. As the situation unfolds, concerns over the countrys foreign policy direction and its impact on long-term stability continue to be central to political discourse.
