Adhaalath Party decides to join govt, back PNC in 2028 election
The decision marks a change in the Adhaalath Party's political position after years of cooperation with the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
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The Adhaalath Party has decided to join President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's government for the remainder of its term and form a coalition with the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) for the 2028 presidential election.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the party's advisory council on Saturday night, exercising powers granted under Article 46.1 of the party's constitution.
In a statement, the Adhaalath Party said President Muizzu had invited it to join the government, recognising the need for political cooperation to strengthen efforts to uphold religious values, protect national sovereignty and independence, and improve the economy.
The party said it considered cooperation with the government to be in the country's best interests, particularly in maintaining political stability and strengthening national unity.
Under a resolution adopted by the advisory council, the party agreed to three decisions:
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Accept President Muizzu's invitation and participate in the government for the remainder of the current presidential term.
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Join a coalition with the PNC for the 2028 presidential election and campaign in support of President Muizzu as the PNC's presidential candidate.
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Authorise the party president to sign a coalition agreement with the PNC.
The decision marks a change in the Adhaalath Party's political position after years of cooperation with the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
The Adhaalath Party was part of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's coalition government following the 2018 presidential election.
It also supported the MDP during the 2023 presidential election.
During the early period of President Muizzu's administration, the Adhaalath Party criticised several government decisions.
However, its political position began to change following leadership changes within the party in January this year.
After Mohamed Shifaan assumed the party presidency, the Adhaalath Party supported the government's proposal to combine presidential and parliamentary elections.
The party also campaigned in favour of the government's position during the referendum on the proposed electoral change.
Despite the party's decision to join the ruling coalition, former Adhaalath Party President and former Home Minister Imran Abdulla continues to oppose the Muizzu administration.
Imran has been involved in the opposition-led campaign against the proposed allocation of Ras Malé land to a foreign developer.
He is among the leading figures of the 'Maldivian Land for Maldivians' movement, which has organised demonstrations against the proposed land arrangement.
The movement has called on the government to halt the agreement, arguing that the allocation of reclaimed land to foreign interests could undermine national sovereignty.
The Adhaalath Party's decision to enter the government and support President Muizzu in 2028 therefore places its current leadership on a different political course from its former president.
