The opposing Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) has said it is investigating Male' City Council member Abdulla Rameez on the instruction of the party's President and presidential candidate, former President Abdulla Yameen.
It has been alleged that Rameez has been campaigning to make Male' City Mayor Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the PPM's presidential candidate, while the ticket has already been granted to President Yameen. Although Yameen has been awarded the party ticket, he cannot contest the September presidential election as he is currently serving an 11-year jail sentence on a money laundering and bribery conviction. He cannot contest the election unless a higher court quashes the Criminal Court verdict.
Speaking to reporters following a meeting with the Election Commission (EC) members, PPM's Vice President and Naifaru MP Ahmed Shiyam said Rameez had committed actions that hinder the party's presidential candidacy.
"President Yameen has asked to investigate the matter as a serious matter and take action accordingly," he said.
Rameez was produced before the PPM ethics committee, and his statement was recorded on Tuesday. Rameez also produced evidence in his defense. Rameez left the party while the party's ethics committee was investigating the matter. His letter to the party said he was leaving PPM as he could not take part in party activities at this time.
