People's National Congress (PNC) Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla has announced that the 2028 presidential ticket will be granted to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu without the need for a primary election.
In a statement made following the PNC’s internal elections, Abdul Raheem clarified that according to the party's regulations, an incumbent president is automatically granted the PNC presidential ticket for a second term.
Uncontested Ticket
Abdul Raheem explained, “If a party member is the incumbent president, they automatically receive the party ticket for the next presidential election.” As such, President Muizzu will receive the PNC ticket for the 2028 presidential race without the need for primaries, he confirmed.
However, President Muizzu has yet to publicly announce whether he will seek re-election for a second term.
Relationship with President Muizzu
When asked about his personal relationship with President Muizzu, Abdul Raheem admitted that their ties were not particularly close before the current administration. However, he added that the relationship is now growing stronger by the day.
Abdul Raheem’s Political Future
In response to questions about his own political aspirations, Abdul Raheem emphatically stated that he has no intention of contesting for the presidency in the future. He clarified, “I have never had aspirations to be President of the Maldives. Even if I were offered the opportunity, I would find a way out.”
Competition for 2028 Presidency
While PNC's leadership has already backed President Muizzu for the 2028 elections, opposition figures are gearing up for a competitive race. Fayyaz Ismail, Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has also announced his candidacy for the MDP presidential ticket. Former President Abdulla Yameen, now affiliated with the People’s National Front (PNF), has also expressed his intention to run for president in 2028.
