MDP Lawmakers Defect to PNC Ahead of Key Rally

A group of lawmakers from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the main opposition party, have announced their decision to join the People’s National Congress (PNC), the ruling party. 

The defection is set to be formalised at a major rally scheduled for tonight at Dharubaaruge at 8:15 pm.

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The MDP confirmed that “several” of its members would be crossing over to the PNC, with the official signing expected to take place during the rally. However, the identities of the lawmakers involved have not been disclosed by the PNC.

According to sources within the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), a coalition partner of the PNC, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu will be present at the rally. The move by MDP lawmakers to switch allegiance is attributed to various factors, including discontent over the party’s selection process for certain constituencies in the upcoming parliamentary election and the decision not to financially support members contesting the election.

The MDP, in response to the defections, has accused the government of attempting to sway the balance by offering bribes to gain support from parliamentarians. The opposition, with 56 members, currently holds the majority needed to initiate the removal of the president or vice-president. The departure of MDP lawmakers may impact the party’s ability to exercise this constitutional power.