Former Parliament Vice-President (Reeko) Moosa Manik has cast doubt on claims of unity within the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), saying only “fools” would believe that all members are standing together.
His remarks follow denials from PNC leadership over Velidhoo MP Mohamed Abbas’s claim that 13 or 14 MPs are preparing to leave the party, even at the cost of their parliamentary seats.
Drawing from his political experience, Moosa recalled that past ruling parties in the Maldives had faced similar fractures. He noted that the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) lost its majority during its first government and saw 12 members lose their seats after a Supreme Court ruling. He also pointed out that Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members had voted against their own government in the past, with many eventually joining the PPM.
“These are recent examples,” Moosa said, adding that it was naïve to take the assurances of the current 20th Parliament members at face value. He also claimed some PNC MPs will soon defect, alleging that Abbas received MVR 3 million from former President Abdulla Yameen to facilitate such moves.
His remarks follow denials from PNC leadership over Velidhoo MP Mohamed Abbas’s claim that 13 or 14 MPs are preparing to leave the party, even at the cost of their parliamentary seats.
Drawing from his political experience, Moosa recalled that past ruling parties in the Maldives had faced similar fractures. He noted that the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) lost its majority during its first government and saw 12 members lose their seats after a Supreme Court ruling. He also pointed out that Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members had voted against their own government in the past, with many eventually joining the PPM.
“These are recent examples,” Moosa said, adding that it was naïve to take the assurances of the current 20th Parliament members at face value. He also claimed some PNC MPs will soon defect, alleging that Abbas received MVR 3 million from former President Abdulla Yameen to facilitate such moves.
