In minority, MDP MPs decry efforts to hamper government

The joint parliamentary group formed by the four parties in the MDP-led coalition has been unable to take a united stand on important issues recently, Aslam told reporters outside the People’s Majlis.

The veteran lawmaker objected to amendments pushed through by MPs from the ruling coalition’s Jumhooree Party and opposition Progressive Party of Maldives to parliamentary rules.

The standing orders were revised to allow MPs to propose legislation with monetary implications. The rules previously required the government to submit bills that would impose a financial burden or introduce new spending.