MP- elect of Kurendhoo constituency has also joined PNC after being elected as an independent candidate.
Kurendhoo constituency's newest MP Shaamin Habeeb, who secured the seat after contesting in the parliamentary elections held this past April as an independent candidate, has joined People's National Congress (PNC), the ruling party of the country today.
He signed to join the party in a special ceremony held today where he also presented his form to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
Shaamin's entry to PNC means that he is now the eighth independent MP-elect to join the party. With this, PNC's supermajority in the parliament has strengthened to 74 members.
However, the total rises to 78 when the Jumhooree Party (JP) member, two Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) members and the Maldives National Party (MNP) member are counted in, as affiliated parties.
The timing of Shaamin joining the party is key to avoid losing his seat. According to the Anti-Defection Act of Maldives, an MP who secured the seat as an independent candidate would stand to lose their seat in parliament should they choose to join a party during their five year term.
However, the Act does not specify the consequences of a member joining a party during the transition period between getting elected and taking oath.
The 20th Parliament of Maldives is scheduled to be sworn in on 28th May, 2024.
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