Independent Candidates Join PNC Following Elections

Six independent candidates elected to Parliament in the recent elections have aligned themselves with the leading People’s National Congress (PNC).

Confirmation of the six independent candidates’ allegiance to the PNC came through a spokesperson from the party today, following their formal signing yesterday. The individuals who have joined the PNC ranks are:

• Dr. Anara Naeem: Huraa constituency
• Hassan Zareer: Mathiveri constituency
• Ahmed Zameer: Central Machangolhi constituency
• Ahmed Riyaz: Thimarafushi constituency
• Yaseen Abdulla: Naifaru constituency
• Azim Abdul Azeez: Vilingili constituency

The PNC, which secured a victory in Sunday’s elections by clinching 66 out of 93 seats, now boasts a strengthened position with a total of 72 seats in the upcoming parliamentary assembly. It’s noteworthy that this count does not incorporate candidates from other parties endorsed by the government, including the Maldives National Party (MNP), Maldives Development Alliance (MDA), and independent political figure Mohamed Abbas, who secured victory in the Velidhoo seat.

The decision of these six independent MP-elects to join the PNC fold follows the passing of an anti-defection bill by the MDP-majority Parliament on April 1. This bill, signed into law by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu last week, stipulates that parliamentarians crossing the floor will forfeit their seats. Moreover, discussions are underway in Parliament to enshrine anti-defection provisions in the constitution.

The 20th parliamentary assembly is slated for swearing-in on May 28, heralding a new chapter in Maldives’ legislative journey.