In his weekly radio address, President Mohamed Nasheed has urged the People’s Majlis to take into account national security issues when voting the bill on amendments to the Armed Forces Act.
The President said, “The constitution is very clear. I am the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. I can’t allow any disruptions and divisions among the Armed Forces. Therefore…when members of the People’s Majlis vote on the bill, they must seriously contemplate and consider the security of the whole country.”
Characterising the proposals that will require Majlis’ approval in appointing high-ranking military officials as undue interference, the President said it could be a barrier against national security, progress and peace.
He added that the Constitution and every principle required of him to defend the office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
“I would like to tell all citizens that I will defend that position, and I will execute the duties in my capacity as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces to the extent required at any given time. I will, with God’s grace, not allow any party to interfere in this,” President Nasheed said.
In the radio address, which was recorded during his ongoing visit to Europe, the President stated that he believed the members of the People’s Majlis would think sensibly before voting the bill.
The People’s Majlis debated on the bill on amendments to the Armed Forces Act on Wednesday.
