Former President and Chairperson of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Mohamed Nasheed, attended the front row of the opening ceremony held to officially inaugurate the congress of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC).
More than 1,300 delegates from different parts of the Maldives are attending the congress, which is scheduled to continue until Friday. The opening session was also attended by MNP President Mohamed Nazim, Adhaalath Party President Sheikh Mohamed Shifaz, as well as ambassadors of foreign countries based in the Maldives.
Although invitations were extended to all political parties in the Maldives, PNC PG Leader Ibrahim Falah said that, for various reasons, some senior leaders of other political parties were unable to attend the ceremony.
Ahead of the congress, which is being held to elect individuals to senior positions within the party and strengthen its organisational structure, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu held discussions with the party’s steering committees and the leaders of its youth and women’s wings. The discussions focused on the implementation of government policies and matters related to the party’s activities.
There is significant interest and competition for the party’s leadership positions. Eight individuals, including Members of Parliament and ministers, have put themselves forward for the six positions of Deputy President.
In addition, 22 individuals are contesting 10 positions designated for women members, while 13 candidates are contesting seven positions allocated for youth members.
A further 73 individuals are contesting 18 positions for general members. Nine positions representing different areas have also attracted the required number of candidates for election.
