The 2026 Congress of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) commenced today in the capital, Malé.
The PNC Congress is scheduled to span four days. During this period, members will vote on proposed amendments to the party’s governing structure and elect representatives to key internal bodies.
The Congress was inaugurated by the President of the Maldives and President of the PNC, Mohamed Muizzu. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Muizzu urged party members to work by "prioritizing national interests and advancing the interests of the party."
"I am confident that with the full participation of all delegates, we will demonstrate an exemplary model of unity—working as one family and one team with a strong spirit. We must always remember our slogan, 'Nation First,' and ensure we fulfill the party's role in the most complete manner for the future of our country by prioritizing national and party interests," he said.
Delegates will elect members to 12 positions during the Congress, the most significant of which are the vice-presidential slots. While six vice presidents are to be elected, eight candidates have contested for the positions.
As the ruling party’s Congress began, allegations have surfaced suggesting that Muizzu is attempting to influence the election of specific individuals to party posts. Reports indicate that over 300 members, approved by Muizzu to vote in the Congress, have been brought to Malé.
According to Article 21 of the PNC Charter, the party’s Supreme Council, or Congress, must be held every five years. The Supreme Council is composed of the PNC’s parliamentary group, constituency presidents and vice presidents, cabinet ministers and state officials of ministerial rank, as well as the heads of the party’s youth and women’s wings, and steering committee chairs or designated members from island branches.
Furthermore, Clause 6 of the same article allows additional members, appointed by the Party President in consultation with the party council, to participate in the Supreme Council. These are not elected positions.
Information obtained by Adhadhu indicates that under this clause, a decision was made to bring more than 300 individuals from across the country to participate in the Congress. A reliable source stated that these individuals were brought in to ensure that votes on key Congress matters align with Muizzu’s preferences.
