Nasheed Will Not Run in 2028 Election, Says No Former Presidents Should Either

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has reiterated that he will not contest the 2028 presidential election and urged that no former presidents enter the race, emphasising the need to give the opportunity to a new generation of leaders.

Speaking to supporters in Addu City, Nasheed said he wanted to create space for emerging leaders and stressed the importance of supporting fresh talent rather than allowing former presidents to compete.

“I’m not trying to contest. I want a new generation to come out. I don’t want former presidents to fight. I want a new generation to come out again and new people to come out, and we stand behind it,” he said.

Nasheed also expressed concerns over the country’s political stability, warning that the Maldives could slip into a dictatorship at any time. He urged that reform efforts must continue despite the risks.

“We must not stop working for change. Maldives can return to dictatorship any time, even tomorrow. You must not stop the democratic spirit of eternal freedom in this country,” he said.

Reflecting on his own role, Nasheed acknowledged that he occasionally considers stepping back from political reform but said continued engagement is vital. At 58, he described his role as supporting and guiding rather than leading.

“So then, in my old age, I am now going to be sixty. Sometimes I wonder if I have dealt with this. But it is important to always continue to work for the stability of the country,” he added.

Nasheed, who currently lives in Ghana where he serves as Secretary General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, is in the Maldives campaigning ahead of local council elections scheduled for Saturday.