Congress unanimously approves awarding presidential ticket to President Muizzu without a primary
17 ސެޕްޓެމްބަރު 2026 | ބުރާސްފަތި 08:34The PNC Congress has officially resolved to grant President Muizzu the 2028 presidential ticket in recognition of his service; however, the decision has faced public backlash over rising living costs and stalled development projects, with critics further arguing that the move undermines internal party democracy.
Congress of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC). | PNC
The People's National Congress (PNC) Senate has passed a resolution to grant President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu the party's 2028 presidential ticket without a primary election.
The resolution was submitted to the party's supreme council, the Congress, by party member Abdulla Ibrahim.
The resolution was passed unanimously on Thursday by all 1,119 members attending the congress. During the debate on the motion to secure a second term for President Muizzu, Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef also expressed his full support for the initiative.
The resolution states that since President Muizzu assumed office, he has undertaken significant national initiatives that have been met with public appreciation. Furthermore, the resolution highlights that the administration is responsibly managing the nation's debt obligations in a manner that avoids placing an undue burden on the citizens.
The resolution further stated that President Muizzu should be granted the party ticket without a primary in recognition and appreciation of his invaluable service to the nation's independence, economy, and social well-being since assuming office.
The resolution highlights President Muizzu’s key initiatives, including the economic empowerment of women and youth, and the launch of mega-projects such as Rasmalé to provide a permanent solution to the housing crisis. Furthermore, the resolution notes that the President’s leadership in developing the healthcare sector and ensuring the dignity and protection of senior citizens serves as a model for the nation.
The resolution highlights that since President Muizzu assumed office, significant efforts have been undertaken to advance national development and improve the standard of living for citizens. These initiatives include ongoing work to safeguard national sovereignty, strengthen the economy, and enhance social well-being.
This resolution was introduced at a time when government policies are facing significant public backlash.
This resolution was submitted to the PNC Senate with the primary objective of securing a second term for President Muizzu. However, many are characterizing this move as an obstruction to the party's internal democracy. Public unrest has also been mounting, with critics arguing that the country's situation has deteriorated since President Muizzu assumed office.
The primary grievances of the public center on the stagnation of development projects, particularly in the islands, alongside the skyrocketing cost of living. Furthermore, citizens are facing profound disillusionment due to the worsening dollar shortage within the banking system and the increasing scarcity of essential medicines within the healthcare sector.
The unfair dismissal of employees from government agencies and state-owned enterprises has become a key factor in the declining public trust in the current administration. As large numbers of workers are being terminated for political reasons, the government is also facing mounting allegations of obstructing press freedom and the right to freedom of expression.
At a time when public disillusionment with the government is mounting over numerous issues, many believe that attempting to award the presidential ticket without a primary is an injustice to the people.
