City issues MVR 128,000 fine after PNC office found built without council approval

The owner of the building that now houses the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) office has been fined MVR 128,000 for carrying out construction without the required permits.

Male' City Mayor Adam Azim told Sun on Saturday that the office, located in H. Veyovilaage, was built without obtaining approval from the council. He said the fine was issued on December 25, and the owner was given seven days to settle the payment.

According to the mayor, failure to pay the fine within the deadline will result in a second penalty being imposed after three months.

The PNC began using the building in early July 2024, after it was previously occupied by the opposition MDP and The Democrats. Following extensive renovations, the structure was expanded to five floors and later inaugurated by President Mohamed Muizzu as a major party office and event hall.

The building features a prominent booth facing the Artificial Beach area, equipped with a large LED screen believed to be used for sharing party information and broadcasting major rallies.

The PNC is currently the largest political party in the Maldives. According to the Election Commission, the party has 74,048 registered members and aims to increase its membership to 100,000.