Question

In which year was a multi-party system introduced in the Maldives?

• A. 2008
• B. 2007
• C. 2006
• D. 2005

Hint:

Keep in mind the distinction between the introduction of the multi-party system (June 2005) and the first multi-party presidential elections held under the new constitution (2008).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Historical Context of the Maldives:
For nearly three decades (from 1978 to 2008), the Maldives was ruled under a highly centralized, single-party dominant presidential system under President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. Political parties were practically banned, and political dissent was severely restricted.

Step 2: Democratic Reforms and Legalization of Political Parties:
Following intense internal pro-democracy protests led by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and international diplomatic pressure, significant constitutional reforms were initiated. In June 2005, the Maldivian Parliament (the People's Majlis) voted unanimously to legalize political parties and register them, formally introducing a multi-party political system.

Step 3: Subsequent Developments:
This landmark decision paved the way for the drafting of a new democratic constitution, which eventually culminated in the first-ever multi-party presidential elections in the Maldives in October 2008, where Mohamed Nasheed was elected president. However, the legal introduction and registration of the multi-party framework officially occurred in 2005.