How did the 2008 constitution change the Maldivian government?

The 2008 constitution marked a significant shift in the Maldivian government by transitioning the nation toward a more democratic framework. Key changes included:

• Enhanced Governance: The constitution established greater checks and balances and strengthened the powers of both the judiciary and the legislature, the People’s Majlis.1
• Electoral Reforms: It introduced a multiparty political system and allowed women to run for the office of president. The president and vice president are now directly elected by universal suffrage for a maximum of two five-year terms.12
• Religious Provisions: The constitution formally established Islam as the official state religion. It mandates that non-Muslims cannot become citizens and prohibits the People’s Majlis from enacting any laws that contravene the tenets of Islam.23
• Institutional Oversight: The framework provided for the establishment of additional governmental bodies, including civil service and human rights commissions.2

These reforms were part of a broader effort to modernize the political system and improve governance within the country.1