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Maldivian History & Local Government

History

The written history of Maldives begins with the country’s Buddhist monarch embracing Islam in 1153 AD. It is however, believed that the Maldives archipelago was originally settled by fishermen from neighboring India and Ceylon (Sri Lanka), shipwrecked sailors, and other ancient travelers in the Indian Ocean. According to legend, a prince from Serendib (identified as Sri Lanka), named Koimala Kaloa, and his bride were becalmed in Maldives and stayed on to rule the country.

Although the country managed to preserve her independence for the most part of her long history, lying at the crossroads of the ancient sea trade routes, Maldives was influenced by sailors and travellers from countries on the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Mopla pirates from the Malabar Coast incessantly harassed the country. In the 16th century, the Portuguese subjugated and ruled the islands for 15 years (1558-73), before being forced to flee by Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al-Azam.

Maldives was a British protectorate from 1887 to 1965. Following independence from Britain in 1965, the sultanate continued till November 11, 1968, when it was abolished and replaced by a republic.

Local Government: Power Structure

Executive

The president is the head of state, government and commander in chief of the armed forces. He is elected for a renewable term of five years, by a national referendum. The president appoints the cabinet, comprising of the vice president (if any), ministers and the attorney general. The president is the propagator of Islam in the country. The president also holds the posts of the Minister of Defence and National Security, the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, the Minister of Finance and Treasury and the Governor of the Maldives Monetary Authority. He is also the ultimate authority in dispensation of justice and has power to grant pardon.

Legislative

The main legislative body is the Rahyithunge’ Majlis [parliament], which consists of fifty members, elected by universal adult suffrage. Members are elected on the basis of two members from Male', two members from each of the twenty administrative atolls, and eight members appointed by the President. The Speaker of the Majlis is appointed by the President. The Majlis is elected to a five year term, with the new term commencing in the last seven days of February. A bill passed by the People’s Majlis becomes law after it is ratified by the President.

Judicial

The ministry of Justice is the judicial arm of the government. The President appoints all judges to the courts and formulates rules of court, either directly or through the Ministry of Justice. The President also is the authority for the ultimate appeal. The High Court judges are appointed by the President. The court reports directly to the President and comprises of a Chief Justice and four judges.

This information can also be found on the Official Maldivian Government Website.