Director General of Transitional Committee Abdulla Abdul Raheem (Adhurey) has always been most keen on serving as a parliamentarian. He started his political career in his native island, and has since served two terms at the Member of Parliament for Fonadhoo constituency. He expressed interest in running for a seat in the upcoming elections despite his failure to secure the seat for the last parliamentary term.
Asked if he would assume the post of Parliament Speaker if re-elected, Abdul Raheem stated that he did not see any reason to not run for the position if the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and People's National Congress (PNC) coalition succeeds in winning a large majority in parliament.
He said that if circumstances happen in that way, he would place special emphasis on promoting dialogue and holding discussions.
"I'm being very honest when I tell you that the person I will deliberate and discuss the most with is Dr Mohamed Muizzu (President Elect). I am still stating that President Yameen is my political mentor. But even so, I believe I have played a key role in the election of Dr Muizzu's government. Therefore I will have an even more important role in maintaining this government I helped elect in power," he said.
Abdul Raheem noted that the most crucial work to bring about positive change to the country can only be achieved through the parliament now, considering Muizzu was elected to power to serve the citizens. He stated that this objective can be reached best if cooperation can be gained through parliament in developing new laws and amending what's lacking.
Abdul Raheem believes that the PPM/PNC coalition will succeed in winning at least 70 out of the 93 seats in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Abdula Raheem has worked with former presidents Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Dr Mohamed Waheed and Abdulla Yameen. He stated that he had backed their political ideologies and has been sincere and loyal to all three presidents when serving them.
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