President Ratifies Constitution

Friday, August 8th, 2008

President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has ratified the new Constitution of the Maldives at 10.32 this morning at a special ceremony held in Dharubaaruge. President signed in a Decree stating he has accepted the Constitution which has been written by the People’s Special Majlis assembled by him. A 7 gun salute was given when the President ceremonially ratified the Constitution. The ceremony was attended by former Chief Justice Mohamed Rasheed Ibrahim, former Speaker of the People’s Majlis Ahmed Zahir, Speaker of the People’s Special Majlis Gasim Ibrahim, senior ministers, cabinet ministers, members of the Special Majlis, Leaders of opposition parties, senior officials of the government and members of the general public.

President Gayoom in his ratification speech said the New Constitution was culmination of the feelings and hopes of the people for a more democratic, free and prosperous Maldives. There are major changes in the government structure, separation of powers, wider role for the People’s Majlis freedom of expression, rights of the people guaranteed in the new Constitution. Equal opportunities for women and men are ensured in the Constitution enabling them to take any positions of the country. He said the rapid development of the country and growing aspirations of the people lead him to initiate a major reform programme and tasking the amendment of the Constitution was the hallmark of these reforms.

The President in his speech broadcast live on tv and radio requested the people to take a moment to take part in this important ceremony which will change the Maldives for the better bringing new freedom, and greater opportunities for a new future. He said this is a moment of great national significance. " Today is a day when the status of our nation and people is elevated for several years ahead. Our aim should be to take our responsibilities fully, not to remain as spectators, there is no doubts Maldivians have the ability to meet the challenges we will face in implementing the Constitution." the President said to a nation waiting enthusiastically for real and meaningful reform. “Freedom of expression is one of the fundamental pillars of democracy, This Constitution will bring with it the right and freedom of expression and media." he added.

President Gayoom who will run for presidency for a seventh term under the new Constitution called on all political parties to shed their differences and work for national unity. He said national interest must prevail over everything else, and our Islamic and national heritages must be cherished while maintaining national unity and peace.” This is not a victory of any individual or party, This is the progress of Maldivians, of Maldives, a victory for Maldivians and for the Maldives" he said.

President said there is much to be done to achieve the historic changes and opportunities the new Constitution has provided to the Maldives. He called on everyone to work towards achieving the full benefit of the Constitution.

President’s Decree of Ratification was read by Minister in the President’s Office Aneesa Ahmed. There was great jubilation in the whole country about the ratification of the new Constitution.

Real work of the provisions of the Constitution will begin immediately. Major tasks among them appointing a new Election Commission, Supreme Court, Judicial Services Commission, and enacting several laws including the law on Presidential Election, and Election Commission. The Constitution states first multi party presidential elections will be held before 10 October 2008. There is a lot of constitutional requirements to be completed to have the election on schedule and meet the important new targets and goals set in the Constitution. Some are very sceptical about the short time available, but however short and daunting it will be, it is a Constitutional obligation.

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