Elections Commission investigating PNC

The Elections Commission (EC) is investigating a case regarding the People’s National Congress (PNC), former President Abdulla Yameen’s new party.

RaajjeMV understands that a member of the public filed the case in accordance with some recent amendments EC made to the regulations on political parties.

EC spokesperson Ahmed Akram has confirmed to the media that they are looking into a case regarding PNC, but did not disclose any details.

Those working to establish PNC are members of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) loyal to Yameen. Some have accused them of using PPM resources and employees to form the new party. While the PNC members have denied this, the party’s businesses are being conducted inside the PPM office and PNC also uses PPM offices for activities in the atolls.

The amendments to the regulations on political parties include giving EC power to stop attempts to leave one party to form another, meaning that the EC is allowed to refuse to register a party if it is being formed with the resources and employees of an existing party, or if the formation of the new party would result in a loss of leadership for an existing party.

PNC held its inaugural assembly on Sunday evening after receiving permission from EC.