PNC accepts responsibility for school damage during internal election clash

The ruling People's National Congress (PNC) has accepted responsibility for damage caused to Ahmed Kamil Didi School during a confrontation at the party's internal election earlier this month.

The incident occurred on 11 July while votes were being counted at the school in Hulhumalé Phase 2. Several people were injured during the clash, and police have arrested three individuals in connection with the case.

Videos shared on social media showed a group entering the venue, assaulting people inside and throwing chairs and other school property.

The Ministry of Education said the incident resulted in damage to school property, including a shattered glass panel on a door and two damaged control knobs on the school's sound system.

Education Minister Dr Ismail Shafeeu said the PNC had accepted responsibility for the damage.

"The PNC has taken full responsibility for this. They have also informed us that they will pay for the damages," Shafeeu said.

Schools in the Maldives are commonly used as polling venues for national and internal political elections. The practice has drawn concerns from some parents over the impact of election-related activities on school property and student safety.