A referendum was held in the Maldives on 18 August 2007 to decide on whether the country should have a presidential system or a parliamentary system. President of the Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom supported a presidential system while the opposition (Maldivian Democratic Party) favored a parliamentary system.[1] This referendum was seen by some as the nation's first democratic ballot in Maldivian history.
Official results showed the presidential system winning over 60% support. Gayoom called the result a "massive endorsement" and confirmed that he would be a candidate in the 2008 presidential election. The opposition alleged that the referendum was rigged.[1]
| Option |
Votes |
% |
| Presidential System |
93,042 |
61.97% |
| Parliamentary System |
57,109 |
38.03% |
| Total |
150,151 |
100.00% |
| Eligible (turnout 77%) |
~195,000 |
|
| People's Daily Online |
