PNF Submits Membership Form to ECM with Over 3,000 Signatures

The People’s National Front (PNF), led by former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, advanced towards formal recognition by submitting over 3,000 membership forms to the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) today, meeting the necessary criteria earlier than expected.

Abdulla Yameen, previously at the helm of the ruling PPM-PNC coalition, encountered legal challenges, resulting in an 11-year prison sentence pronounced on December 25, 2022. This verdict, pertaining to charges of bribery and money laundering in relation to the sale of V. Aarah, led to his incarceration. 

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

However, on October 1, 2023, Yameen was transferred home, coinciding with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s victory in the presidential elections. Shortly after Muizzu assumed office in November, Yameen disassociated himself from the ruling coalition, initiating efforts to establish a new political outfit.

Following ECM’s approval for the formation of PNF on November 29, the party had a three-month window to fulfil the minimum membership criterion for official registration. Anticipating the Thursday deadline, PNF proactively submitted the required forms on Tuesday, as confirmed by EC’s secretary-general Hassan Zakariyya, who stated that the commission is presently verifying the submissions.

Given Yameen’s legal predicament, he is precluded from being formally designated as PNF’s founder. Consequently, the application was lodged under the auspices of his son, Zain Abdulla Yameen.

Earlier declarations by Yameen’s confidant, former science minister Mohamed Maleeh Jamal, had outlined intentions to swiftly amass the necessary memberships, with assurances of compliance within 24 hours upon filing the application in November. Despite claims in December of having fulfilled the membership threshold, PNF postponed submission to EC, awaiting Yameen’s potential release pending the outcome of his appeal, which remains pending with the High Court.

Despite legal restrictions prohibiting active political involvement due to his conviction, Yameen remains predominantly engaged in PNF’s affairs, attending meetings and campaign functions. His recent escalation in criticism directed at President Muizzu’s administration underscores his continued influence within the political landscape.