The apparently 'disqualified' lawmaker Saudhullah Hilmy has reached out to the citizens of his constituency, north-Thinadhoo and advised them to carefully think before casting vote in the looming by-election announced by Elections Commission.
He also claimed the by-election is unjust and unlawful and therefore it cannot be acknowledged.
In a statement released by Hilmy on Monday, he affirmed that his parliament seat has not been vacated and he is still the legitimate parliamentarian of the constituency as per the constitution.
Hilmy had furthermore assured that he had promised fealty to the citizens of his constituency and to uphold lawful conduct to work for the betterment of the community while taking his stand against offenses.
The EC labeled disqualified lawmaker had stated Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) had been ideal and constructive at the time when he ran for the constituency through the party's ticket. However he had pointed out at the drastic changes the party has transitioned through.
Hilmy also pointed out those who supported his parliamentarian run back then have shifted their support since then, referring to the jailed former Defense Minister Mohamed Nazim, former Home Minister Umar Naseer and ex-Youth Minister Maleeh Jamaal.
He also noted that when parliament elections were held back then, north-Thinadhoo constituency had roughly 300 members in PPM, but he mustered a total of 1024 votes in favor, most of which came from non-PPM members.
Saudhullah Hilmy had filed a letter at PPM's administration on July 10, requesting for immediate cancellation of his membership at the party due to several professional conflicts and change of party directives, and points out that his letter was filed before Supreme Court had issued their apparent order citing dismissal of parliament seat over party defection; which was announced on July 13.
In his statement, Hilmy had assured unhinged and undiluted commitment towards the betterment and prosperity of his constituency and promised to continue his cause on behalf of his people.
