2008 Constitution !!install!! Direct

| Article | Content | Criticism | |---------|---------|------------| | 59(f) | President’s spouse, children, parents may not owe allegiance to a foreign power. | Used to disqualify Aung San Suu Kyi (her sons are British) and others. | | 436 | Amendment requires >75% of all MPs (not just voting) plus a national referendum for certain chapters. | Since military holds 25%, military has absolute veto. | | 40(c) & 418 | Emergency takeover by military. | Used to justify 2021 coup – military claimed 2020 election fraud. | | 109, 141 | 25% of parliamentary seats reserved for unelected military. | Guarantees military veto power. | | 6(d) | “The Tatmadaw is the main force in national politics.” | Legalizes military dominance outside democratic control. |

A unique, albeit controversial, feature was the inclusion of a running mate for the President. Unlike many parliamentary systems, the Maldivian Vice President is elected on the same ticket as the President. This was intended to ensure stability and succession, though in practice, the relationship between Presidents and Vice Presidents has often been fraught with political tension. 2008 constitution

– bicameral: