Episode 20: Constitutional reform, the courts and the referendum

In his first one-on-one open interview since resigning from the Supreme Court, Suood reflects on nearly 15 years since the 2008 constitution and discusses the constitutional referendum, the Supreme Court’s recent activism and the need for judicial reform. He also shares his views on recall votes for the president and Supreme Court judges, the role of parliament, and practical steps to reshape the country’s legal and political framework.

0:45 - What does the referendum results represent? How would you interpret the results

1:43 - "Everyone's eyes were focused on the constituent assembly,"

2:15 - Why is coupling of presidential and parliamentary elections such a big deal?

3:03 - Certainty and what might follow

3:45 - Why has the Supreme Court suddenly been activated after the April 4 election?

4:30 - Agree timeline between Supreme Court and the Executive

5:10 - "It will be investigated in the future."

5:38 - How shall we reconstitute the judicial watchdog?

6:40 - Standardised test for judges

8:05 - Collusion between Majlis judiciary committee and JSC

8:50 - "Yes, judges are intimidated."

10:00 - The threat of a no-confidence motion

11:53 - Re-call vote for the president

12:30 - The mechanics of impeachment proceedings 

13:00 - Enacting fundamental constitutional changes to the framework of the Maldivian state

14:00 - Schemes and loans suppressing civil liberties

15:20 - Civil society role and restraints

16:18 - Will the change of heads change anything for the better?

17:00 - "No salvation without reforming parliament"