Timeline : Constitutional changes in the Republic of Maldives

The Maldives is a unitary, sovereign, independent and democratic Republic based on the principles of Islam. The evolution and development of the system of governance and administration in the Maldives shows long standing, unwritten constitutional principles accepted by the people.

19 March 1931	-          The Maldivian constitution was written for the first time during Sultan Muhammad Shamsuddeen’s reign. -           On 19 March 1931 a council was appointed and assigned the task of drafting the first constitution of the Maldives. -          The constitution was proclaimed and put into practice on 22 December 1931. -          The rights of the citizens, equality and justice and the rights of the people to live in peace and security were protected in the constitution for the first time. -          Constitution articulated administrative reforms towards improving lives of the people.
31 January 1940	-          The first constitution was revised -          On 31 January 1940, the constitution was repealed because it was unsuitable for the circumstances at that time.
23 April 1942	-          On 23 April 1942 a new constitution was formulated and implemented.
1952	-          In 1952 the Maldives became a Republic and the Constitution was revised to a Republican one.
7 March 1954	-          On 7 March 1954 the Monarchy was restored, and the constitution was revised once again.
11 November 1968	-          In 1968, during Muhammad Fareed’s reign, a referendum was held. -          On 11 November 1968, a Republican form of Government was adopted for the second time. -          Ibrahim Nasir became the First President of the Second Republic. -          The constitution of the Maldives has been in use and amended thrice since then.
31 December 1978	-          On 31 December 1978, during the first year of Presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom, the People’s Majlis passed a Bill providing the amendment of the Constitution.
29 November 1980	-          On 29 November 1980, the President convened the People’s Majlis. -          The Special Majlis was charged with the responsibility of amending the constitution.
27 November 1997	-          On 27 November 1997, the amended Constitution adopted by the Special Majlis was given consent by President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom.
1 January 1998.	-          On 1 January 1998, the amended Constitution was put to practice.
28 May 2004	-          An Election for People’s Special Majlis was held.
9 June 2004	-          Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom shared his views on Constitutional reform.
15 June 2004	-          Elected members of the People’s Special Majlis took oath of office.
19 July 2004	-          The first meeting of the People’s Special Majlis was held.
07 August 2007	-          The old Constitution was dissolved.
07 August 2008	-          The Constitution of the Maldives was ratified.
11 November 2008	-          President Nasheed was sworn in.
07 February 2012	-          President Waheedh was sworn in.