Interim President of People's National Congress (PNC) Abdul Raheem Abdulla has revealed the state must pay over USD 1.165 million to Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).
Speaking at a press conference, Abdul Raheem Abdulla stated PPM have not received the funds for political parties which must be issued by Elections Commission (ECM). In this regard, Abdul Raheem said the debt of PPM can only be paid off when the party receives the funds from the state.
Moreover, Abdul Raheem noted at first it was believable the funds were held since the case was still in court process, adding however, there are no reason to not issue the funds now. Noting the party needs to pay USD 246,000 for national airline, Maldivian, he revealed such payments can only be made when the state releases the funds.
ECM has released funds for all political parties except for PPM. The main opposition party should be receiving the largest portion of funds, which is estimated to be USD 647,415 depending on the number of members, according to ECM. The funds are allocated depending on the membership of the party.