Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Special Advisor  to the President and Chairperson of the People’s National Congress (PNC), has announced his candidacy for next year’s parliamentary elections, aiming to contest the Fonadhoo constituency in Laamu Atoll.

He previously held this seat for two sessions but lost in the 2019 elections to Moosa Siraj, then a candidate of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). Siraj, who recently joined PNC, is currently the parliamentary group leader of the party.

Raheem, a key figure in the PNC and a former aide to ex-President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, played a crucial role in forming the PNC and campaigning for the current President, Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

Raheem, who has been a vocal parliamentarian in the past, does not come from a traditional legislative background, a trait shared with the majority of parliamentarians. His rise to top positions in local politics highlights his influence and determination.

His decision to run aligns with the PNC-Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) coalition’s strategy, amid concerns about Raheem’s alleged misuse of authority for family appointments in the government. This includes the controversial appointment of his son as the Minister of Tourism, a decision that has already come under public scrutiny and criticism.

In an interview with local media, Raheem expressed that his political future is guided by President Muizzu’s advice. His announcement comes against the backdrop of a tumultuous political landscape, marked by Yameen’s departure from PPM and the subsequent formation of a new party, the People’s National Front (PNF). The PNC-PPM parliamentary primaries are scheduled for the 23rd of this month.