MDP condemns state resources use for PNC's membership
The current number stands at approximately 65,000, according to PNC’s recent statements.
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Sunday voiced strong concerns regarding the Progressive National Congress's (PNC) alleged use of state resources and influence to increase its membership.
President Mohamed Muizzu, who recently launched an intensive campaign to expand PNC membership across the Maldives, has set an ambitious target of 75,000 members. The current number stands at approximately 65,000, according to PNC’s recent statements.
However, the MDP argues that this push for expansion is being fueled by questionable practices. In a public statement, the MDP cited a series of grievances, asserting that state institutions are being leveraged to inflate PNC’s membership numbers, with actions that they deem both improper and coercive. The statement listed the following specific allegations:
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Influence on State Institutions: The MDP claims state institutions are under undue pressure to boost PNC membership numbers, a move they condemned as a misuse of state influence.
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Exploitation of State Property and Resources: MDP accuses the PNC of channeling government assets, personnel, and time into the membership drive, allegedly under instructions from President Muizzu.
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Complaints from Citizens: The opposition reports receiving numerous complaints about the PNC’s methods, many of which describe uncomfortable and, at times, coercive situations.
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Job Threats: According to MDP, some citizens report being pressured to join PNC under the threat of job security.
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Use of Government Buildings and Working Hours: Allegedly, government offices and employees are being mobilized to increase PNC membership during official working hours, disrupting public services.
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Disruption to Public Facilities: Employees have reported that the campaign is hampering their usual duties, particularly in institutions now involved in the membership drive.
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Unauthorized Use of Personal Information: The MDP claims that PNC has accessed and utilized personal data from government institutions to support the membership push.
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MDP has called upon the Elections Commission and other regulatory bodies to investigate these practices and take necessary legal action.
