Former Maldivian Minister Azim Joins Opposition PNC Party

Azim Abdul Azeez, a former Maldivian minister, has joined the opposition Progressive National Congress (PNC) party. The announcement comes after six independent candidates who secured seats in the recent parliamentary elections on April 21, 2024 also signed to become members of the ruling PNC party.

The new PNC members, including Dr. Anaraa Naeem (Huraa), Hassan Zareer (Mathiveri), Ahmed Zameer (Mahchangoalhi Central), Ahmed Riyaz (Thimarafushi), and Yasin Abdullah (Naifaru), were welcomed in a special ceremony attended by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, state ministers, and other PNC officials. Except for Ahmed Riyaz, the rest were previously PNC members who left the party to run as independents in the election.

With Azim's addition, the PNC now has a total of 72 members representing the party in the newly elected Parliament. This marks the first instance that a ruling party has acquired such a high number of seats. The pro-government coalition, which includes the JP, MDA, and MNP parties, is expected to control 76 seats in the incoming 93-seat parliament, giving them a supermajority.

Why this matters: The PNC's acquisition of a supermajority in the Maldivian Parliament has significant implications for the country's political landscape. It strengthens the ruling party's ability to pass legislation and shape national policies with minimal opposition.

However, the recently ratified Anti-Defection Act raises questions about the procedures for instances where members sign with a party prior to taking their oath of office. Former Vice President of the Elections Commission, Ismail Habeeb, has raised concerns about the lack of clarity in the Act regarding such scenarios. "The Anti-Defection Act does not provide clear guidelines for situations where MPs-elect join parties before being sworn in," Habeeb stated.

Key Takeaways

• Former Maldivian minister Azim Abdul Azeez joins opposition PNC party.
• 6 independent candidates elected in 2024 also join ruling PNC party.
• PNC now has 72 seats, giving pro-govt coalition a supermajority of 76 seats.
• Anti-Defection Act lacks clarity on MPs-elect joining parties before taking oath.
• PNC's supermajority strengthens its ability to pass legislation with minimal opposition.