President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom Wednesday denounced elected officials switching sides, describing it as a major violation of the trust and confidence of voters.
Speaking during a ceremony to inaugurate a new sewage system in Shaviyani Atoll Kanditheemu island, president Yameen said candidates seek elected office on a respective party ticket with a pledge to promote the ideology and principles of the party.
President pointed out that voters at present consider the party manifesto and pledges before casting their ballots.
"After so much effort, though its not against the law, when elected officials abandon party values and decide to switch sides, I consider it is a major violation," he added.
President Yameen further insisted that the aim of his government is to establish a democracy which is free from an individual ideology and ensure that the interests of every citizen is protected.
As the parties gear up for the upcoming local council elections, president reminded the people to vote based on the pledges of the candidates rather than self interest.
