People's National Congress (PNC) has elected Parliamentarian Abdul Raheem Abdulla as its interim president.
PNC, led by former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, also appointed 40 members to its interim council at the inaugural meeting held with the presence of 357 representatives. The interim council comprises of ministers and senior officials who served in the former administration.
Furthermore, former Minister of Economic Development Mohamed Saeed and former Minister of Defence and National Security Adam Shareef Umar were appointed as interim Vice Presidents.
During the meeting, PNC inaugurated its official name, logo, colour and flag. Moreover, PNC launched its party charter and manifesto.
Addressing the ceremony, interim President Abdul Raheem Abdulla said PNC was formed upon the advisory of Yameen and will always work to maintain the nationality and Islamic principles of the country. He added the party will uphold the policies of the former president.
Although PNC has held its inaugural meeting, Elections Commission of Maldives has begun investigating allegations that PNC utilised resources of Progressive party of Maldives (PPM) during the registration process. If sufficient evidence is collected, the commission has the authority to cancel the permit given to form the party.