The ratified constitution is a ‘rights based constitution’, says HRCM President

News | 11 August 2008

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives held a press conference on 11 August 2008. Speaking at this meeting the president of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives, Mr. Ahmed Saleem stated that the constitution of Maldives ratified by the president on 7 August 2008 is a ‘rights based constitution’. He further stated that this constitution is a very comprehensive document ensuring the rights of Maldivians which has been realized at this time in history when the people of this country are working towards establishing a genuine democracy. Addressing the media at this function, Saleem also said that in order to reap the full benefit of the rights ensured by the constitution we need to use these rights in a responsible manner. He also mentioned that HRCM, NGO’s and the media need to shoulder the liability of making sure that these rights are in fact utilized with responsibility.

The purpose of the news conference was to share information on current efforts of the commission especially the voting rights campaign of HRCM, the role of the commission in the upcoming presidential elections which is, to ensure that the voting rights specified under the constitution are exercised, and the institutions responsible for this purpose, works to its full potential to make sure that the upcoming election is free and fair. The commission would also be publishing a report based on its activities in this regard. HRCM has also decided to conduct awareness campaigns all over the nation to increase the understanding of the chapters on freedom and fundamental human rights specified under the constitution.

At the function HRCM also launched its first newsletter titled ‘Haqqu’ (Right). ‘Haqqu’ is a quarterly newsletter that aims to raise awareness on human rights issues and to disseminate news on the work of the commission. It will be distributed freely nation wide.

The vice president of HRCM Mr. Mohamed Zahid, announced that the housing report based on an assessment done by the commission to evaluate the current housing situation in the Maldives is being finalized and the report is scheduled for release in two weeks time.