Muizzu calls on PNC to put nation first as party membership nears 80,000

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called on members of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) to put national interests above individual and party interests, urging the party to remain united as it takes on a greater role in supporting the government’s development agenda.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the PNC Congress, President Muizzu said the party must ensure all its organs work together effectively while strengthening its contribution to the government’s efforts to deliver for the Maldivian people.

The President identified stability, development and security as the three central pillars underpinning his presidential manifesto and subsequent government policies.

He said these principles should remain at the centre of the party’s public engagement and policy communication, describing the government’s overarching objective as creating a peaceful, progressive and secure Maldives.

Calling for unity within the party, Muizzu urged members to safeguard the interests of the nation while upholding the welfare of the PNC and adhering to its “Nation First” motto.

The President said the PNC had undergone significant growth since he assumed office, noting that party membership stood at around 3,000 on November 17, 2023, but has now increased to nearly 80,000.

He attributed the expansion to the collective efforts of party members and said the growth carries greater responsibility for the PNC to serve the country responsibly.

According to Muizzu, the PNC’s political approach places the country ahead of individual interests and is grounded in protecting the Maldives’ religion, culture and national identity.

He also described the government’s foreign policy as “Pro-Maldives”, saying the approach is intended to secure the country’s development and protection while advancing national interests.

The President urged PNC members to remain conscious of the political environment and the challenges facing the country, warning that irresponsible actions aimed at creating unrest should not be allowed to undermine national stability.

He called for a strong and cohesive party front in response to such efforts, stressing that the PNC has a clear agenda centred on the nation.

Muizzu said he was confident the PNC could set an example for the development of Maldivian politics, with the party’s ideology focused on the wellbeing, harmony and development of the country.

The inaugural ceremony marks a new phase in the internal structure of the ruling party, with the President calling on its members to work collectively to strengthen the party’s role in delivering the government’s national agenda.