The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has vehemently denied allegations of offering financial incentives to encourage MPs to join the party.
Several MPs and ordinary MDP members recently left the party to join its break-off party, The Democrats, following an internal conflict within the party. However, some MPs have since returned to the MDP, prompting allegations that they were offered bribes to make the switch. Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed was particularly assertive in his accusations, subsequently filing a police complaint for investigation.
In response to Nasheed's allegations, MDP's Spokesperson, Anas Abdul Sattar, emphasized that two MPs, Yasir Abdul Latheef and Hassan Shiyan, returned to the MDP voluntarily, driven by the support of their constituents and a belief in the party's vision. Anas refuted Nasheed's claims, highlighting that the party had no need to poach MPs as it already held the majority of the Parliament.
"They are returning to the MDP based on the support of their constituents and their own belief. They believe that the MDP can govern the people of the Maldives and develop the country. The MDP is not a party that will offer bribes," Anas said.
Anas added that Nasheed should not think so little of any parliamentary member. It is unfortunate that someone of President Nasheed's stature has expressed such accusatory statements about fellow members, he said.
Other senior officials of The Democrats also allege that their members are being paid to return to the MDP. However, there is no concrete evidence to support the claim.
The ACC and other relevant agencies have investigated several cases of members being bought by Nasheed at high prices due to a lack of a majority in Parliament during Nasheed's rule.
