Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the country’s Anti-Defection Bill, granting legal enforcement for lawmakers who defect to another party and lose their parliament seats.
“The bill was approved on April 1,” the president’s office announced.
Proposed by MP Ahmed Abdulla from the majority Maldivian Democratic Party, the bill applies to MPs, atoll and island councillors, and members of Women’s Development Committees (WDCs).
“The new law mandates resignations from political positions upon party switches,” the president’s office explained.
The Anti-Defection Bill also outlines consequences for councillors and WDC members, who will lose their seats if they change parties.
The law extends even to independent members signing with political parties, ensuring widespread accountability.
