Yameen labels Ghassan, Shiyam as 'traitors' over dissolving PPM
The decision to dissolve PPM was made by its senate in December, with Ghassan and Shiyam chairing the proceedings.
Former President and ex-PPM leader Abdulla Yameen on Sunday described Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon and Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam as traitors.
The PPM, which had been a prominent political party in the Maldives for years, was officially dissolved and removed from the political party register on Thursday. The decision to dissolve the party was made by its senate in December, with Ghassan and Shiyam chairing the proceedings.
Speaking at a rally held at Yameen's new PNF party office, Yameen claimed that dissolving the PPM was an attempt to mislead ordinary party members.
During the PNF rally, various speakers stated that instead of appointing long-serving PPM youth members to government positions, opportunities were given to former activists from the opposition MDP, JP, and other parties.
Yameen referred to Ghassan and Shiyam as the biggest traitors within the PPM.
“The first person to take responsibility for the PPM’s roadblocks is President Muizzu. Then, the biggest traitors are Ghassan Maumoon and Shiyam,” Yameen said.
He alleged that the two ministers used the PPM and its youth members for their own political gain.
Yameen also criticised young parliamentarians, naming Henveiru North MP Ahmed Aifan and Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan. He accused them of weakening the power of parliament and the people, alleging that President Muizzu had financial influence over them.
He also referred to the constitutional amendment passed by the PNC-majority parliament, which allows for the removal of MPs from their seats if their party is dissolved.
The PNC was established in 2019 as a backup party for Yameen. A court case was filed regarding the expulsion of Yameen’s half-brother and former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom from the party and Yameen’s election as party leader.
Following the court ruling in Yameen’s favour, the PPM and PNC formed a coalition, operating under a joint senate. The Supreme Court later ruled that Yameen was ineligible to contest the 2023 presidential election.
