Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla has said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu will become the first President to win a second term in office.
Speaking at a PNC gathering held to celebrate the party’s victory in the local council election in Alifu Alifu Himandhoo last month, Abdul Raheem said the government was governing in line with the wishes of the public.
He said the administration had protected the country’s sovereignty and maintained what he described as the nation’s “line of freedom”, arguing that these achievements would secure President Muizzu victory in the 2028 presidential election.
“Do not doubt, do not despair. God willing, the 2028 Presidential election will be won by a large margin,” he said.
He added that President Muizzu would continue to govern for a second term “with the blessings of Allah”.
Abdul Raheem also urged ruling party supporters not to be discouraged by criticism from the opposition, including supporters of the People’s National Front (PNF), led by former president Abdulla Yameen.
Referring to demonstrations held near the PNC office by PNF supporters, he said the ruling party should instead focus on uniting supporters ahead of the next presidential election.
He also said the PNC accepted the outcome of the recent local council elections, in which the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party secured a majority of council seats, while the ruling party retained control of Women’s Development Committees.
According to Abdul Raheem, the government would continue adjusting its policies in response to public sentiment.
He further defended the government’s economic management, noting that the state had repaid around USD 1 billion in debt last month while continuing to pay salaries and maintain development projects.
Abdul Raheem also criticized the PNF for what he described as efforts to undermine the president, and accused opposition figures of engaging in politics driven by personal grievances rather than constructive criticism.
“Constructive criticism is welcome,” he said, adding that the ruling party would respond politically if attacks became personal.
He said the PNC remained firmly aligned with the public under President Muizzu’s leadership.
