Asma and son join race for PNC Vice Presidency positions

Aug 2, 2026, 9:05 AM

Maafannu Central MP Asma Rasheed, and her son, Government Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu), have announced their candidacy for the vice presidency of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC).

Asma announced her bid for the position within the PNC parliamentary group’s WhatsApp circle.

"With the grace of Almighty Allah, I intend to contest for the position of Vice President to be elected by the upcoming Congress Party’s National Council. I hereby announce my candidacy and seek the support of all beloved members of the National Council," Asma said.

Mundhu, who currently serves as a PNC Vice President, confirmed to Adhadhu that he will be seeking re-election to the post.

The PNC is set to elect six vice presidents at its congress this year, with the number of declared candidates now reaching six.

Candidate	Current Position	Details
Ibrahim Shujau	Baarashu MP	The first to announce his candidacy. He claims to be running with President Mohamed Muizzu's backing and is an incumbent Vice President.
Mohamed Saeed	Economic minister	An incumbent Vice President running with Muizzu's backing.
Fathimath Saudha	Nilandhoo MP	Muizzu’s sister. She has not previously held a senior leadership role within a political party.
Abdulla Rafiu	Sports Minister	Served as the PNC campaign manager for the Hithadhoo North by-election and is considered a close ally of the President.
Asma Rasheed	Maafannu Central MP	Announced her candidacy via WhatsApp. She was previously removed as Chair of the Parliament’s Social Affairs Committee following a fallout with Muizzu, during which time, her son Mundhu and sister Salma Rasheed were also dismissed from diplomatic posts. However, the dismissal letter for Salma was later rescinded, and reports suggest the President has since apologized to Asma.
Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu)	Government Spokesperson	Son of Asma Rasheed and an incumbent Vice President of the PNC.

Among the current vice presidents, Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam, Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon, and LGA CEO Mohamed Nimal have yet to declare their candidacies. Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, also serves as a party vice president but has not yet expressed interest in seeking re-election to the party post.

The PNC Congress is scheduled to take place in mid-September.

Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundu)People's national congress ( PNC)MP Asma Rasheed (Maafannu Central)

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