President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated the National Congress of the People’s National Congress (PNC), pledging that the ruling party will remain committed to safeguarding national stability, security and development.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Tuesday, President Muizzu, who also serves as PNC President, called on party members to remain united and vigilant. He urged members not to allow internal divisions to create opportunities for political opponents seeking to cause unrest in the country.
The congress will feature discussions on the party’s charter, its future political direction and key areas of national development. Special ministerial sessions are also scheduled as part of the programme, alongside activities dedicated to youth and women.
Elections for six Vice President positions and seats on the party’s Senate are scheduled for September 16 and 17.
Competition for senior positions has drawn significant interest, with eight candidates contesting the six Vice President posts. They are Asma Rasheed, Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundu), Abdulla Rafiu, Ahmed Shiyam, Ibrahim Shujau, Fathimath Sauda, Mohamed Nimal and Mohamed Saeed.
Competition is also high for seats on the party’s councils. Twenty-two candidates are contesting 10 seats reserved for women, while 13 candidates are seeking seven youth seats. Another 73 candidates are competing for 18 general member positions.
For nine other positions, the number of candidates is equal to the number of available seats, according to the party.
The congress will also include the swearing-in of newly established positions and discussions aimed at determining the PNC’s future vision.
The PNC currently has more than 78,505 registered members, making it the largest political party in the Maldives by membership.
