EC backs court ruling over PPM

Elections Commission (EC) has declared that it will be acting in accordance with the court ruling regarding the conflict within ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).

Conflicts within PPM has resulted in it being divided between two factions; those loyal to President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, and those loyal to Leader of PPM, former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

The Civil Court ruling orders that the advisor of the party – meaning President Yameen – take over the running of the party.

Member of EC, Ahmed Akram told “Sun” that EC respected the rule of the law, and was therefore acting in accordance with the Civil Court ruling.

Akram said that EC had not received any letter which required it to provide an answer to PPM, after the court ruling was made.

He said that EC would also respect the court decision which will be made after Maumoon appeals the Civil Court ruling, no matter what the outcome may be.

“Sun” has been informed that Maumoon’s faction had sent two letters signed by him to EC, informing the commission of the appointment of Abdul Aleem as Secretary-General of PPM, and informing the commission of appointment of Umar Naseer and Ahmed Sofwan to PPM Council.

Meanwhile, Yameen’s faction has also sent a letter, signed by Deputy Leader MP Abdul Raheem Abdulla informing EC of the appointment of Nilandhoo MP Dr. Abdulla Khaleel as PPM’s Secretary-General.

Khaleel has said he would respect the decision of EC regarding the conflict.