Abdul Raheem Calls for PNC to Maintain Momentum Ahead of 2028 Election

People’s National Congress (PNC) Chairperson Abdul Raheem Abdulla has called on party members to maintain the momentum generated by the party’s National Congress, saying President Dr Mohamed Muizzu can secure victory in the 2028 presidential election if the current level of enthusiasm and commitment is sustained.

Speaking at a ceremony held to celebrate the success of the PNC National Congress, Abdul Raheem said the participation and dedication demonstrated by party members reflected their loyalty to President Muizzu and the PNC.

He said the Congress demonstrated the public’s desire for a leader who directly engages with the people and makes decisions through consultation. According to Abdul Raheem, the conclusion of the Congress has also established a well-organized political structure that can be utilized in preparations for the 2028 presidential election.

Abdul Raheem described the Congress as the most successful, comprehensive and well-organized large-scale political congress held in the Maldives, attributing its outcome to the efforts of party members over the past two months.

The PNC National Congress was held from September 15 to 18, with more than 1,300 representatives participating. The Congress included internal elections and decisions on the party’s leadership and future political direction.

During the Congress, the PNC unanimously approved a resolution to award its 2028 presidential ticket to President Muizzu without holding a primary. The resolution received 1,119 votes.

Abdul Raheem said the party must now focus on the future and work towards establishing what he described as the PNC’s nationalistic and constructive ideology as the governing vision of the country. He said this ideology is now represented by President Muizzu.

He urged members not to retreat from the political momentum created by the Congress, calling on them to move forward with the same determination and commitment towards the 2028 presidential election.

Abdul Raheem also said the PNC’s position as the largest political party in the Maldives had been demonstrated through the scale and organization of the Congress. The Elections Commission’s registry showed 67,579 registered PNC members when the Congress began, while party officials have stated that membership has exceeded 70,000.

He said the positive feedback from delegates regarding the organization of the Congress reflected the efforts of party members and urged them not to waste the experience gained during the event.

“Do not waste a single moment,” Abdul Raheem said, calling on members to use the lessons and organizational experience gained from the Congress in preparation for the 2028 presidential election.

The remarks come after Abdul Raheem had previously said the PNC’s immediate political objective was to secure President Muizzu’s re-election in 2028. He had also called on party members to begin preparations for the election following the Congress.