Abdul Raheem: PNC will not hold a primary; ticket will go to President

Ruling PNC’s Chairperson Abdul Raheem Abdulla states the party will not be holding a primary for 2028’s presidential election, adding the party's presidential ticket will go to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

Speaking at a press conference held regarding PNC’s internal elections on Saturday night, Abdul Raheem said individuals elected President on the party’s ticket will receive the presidential ticket if they desire a second term in office.

“Henceforth, there is no need to hold a primary for this,” he said.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was elected President after defeating former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih during last year’s presidential election. Although the President has indicated the possibility of contesting for a second term, he has yet to make an official announcement in this trajectory.

Moreover, senior officials from the government, including Abdul Raheem, have repeatedly expressed they were undertaking efforts to secure a second term for President Muizzu.

Abdul Raheem reaffirmed commitment to achieve the goal of ensuring President Muizzu becomes the first President under the current constitution to secure a second in 2028.

He emphasized that he has no personal interest in running for the presidency.  

Individuals who have announced their intention to contest in 2028’s presidential election include former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom and main opposition MDP’s Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail.