Parliament has accepted the amendment which nullifies the need for by-elections in the event where the quorum for Councils is not affected by resignations.
The amendment proposed by PPM MP for Thulusdhoo Constituency Mohamed Waheed was accepted to the Parliament with the vote of the 38 MPs who took part in the vote. Fifteen MPs voted against the motion, while three opted for a neutral ground.
The amendment states that the Minister in charge of Local Government Authority (LGA) can call on Elections Commission (EC) to conduct a vote of no confidence on Councilors. The vote can only be carried out if an investigation carried out by the LGA Board shows that the Councilors had failed to carry out their mandate.
The amendment states that there are five measures that can be carried out against such Councilors who fail to meet the responsibilities set for them. As such, citations and warnings are to be given prior to suspension of individual Councilors or the whole Councils. A no confidence vote is the next measure. Additionally, the Minister can appoint Managers to oversee specific projects.
The amendment states that if a Council or Councilor fails the no confidence vote, they will be removed from their positions effective immediately. In the event where the entire Council is suspended, a responsible official will be appointed to oversee the work of the Council under the guidance of LGA.
The amendment also states that in the event a Councilor resigns, an election need not to be held if the legal quorum is not affected by the resignation, even within the specified 45 days to hold an election.
He had also proposed in the Act that the President should have discretionary powers over Male’ City Council as well.
Parliament accepts amendment for by-elections for Councils
