Former President Solih Backs Meekail for MDP Chairperson, Calls for Generational Change

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih said leadership of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) should transition to a younger generation, expressing support for South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem in the party’s chairperson race.

“I want to see us pass that baton to a new generation on the day the party turns 21. That is the reason why I support Meekail Naseem today,” President Solih said.

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Solih made the remarks while speaking at an “Ithubaaru” (Trust) campaign event held at the MDP hub in Lhaviyani Atoll, Hinnavaru, last night ahead of the party’s chairperson election scheduled for June 12.

Speaking in support of Meekail’s candidacy, Solih said the party should hand over leadership responsibilities to a new generation as the MDP marks its 21st anniversary.

He said the MDP has historically created leaders and referred to the long rule of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, stating that prolonged leadership had previously denied opportunities for younger generations to enter national leadership. Solih noted that presidential term limits were later introduced in the Constitution to encourage leadership renewal.

Looking ahead to the 2028 presidential election, Solih said young people are expected to make up more than 41 percent of the voting population. However, he noted that youth currently represent only around 17 to 18 percent of the MDP’s membership.

He warned that failing to transition leadership to younger members could result in younger generations becoming disconnected from the party’s leadership structure.

Comments on Nasheed

Solih also acknowledged the contributions of former President Mohamed Nasheed, who is contesting against Meekail in the chairperson election.

He said he did not believe the election was one Nasheed should contest, adding that Nasheed should continue broader national reform efforts initiated by former presidents working together.

Solih also stressed the importance of avoiding further divisions within the party, saying he intended to continue working with Nasheed despite campaigning for Meekail.

Support for Neutral Leadership

Endorsing Meekail’s campaign platform, Solih said the MDP’s presidential primary ahead of the 2028 election should be conducted in a transparent and impartial manner.

He said this could be achieved by electing a chairperson who does not publicly support a specific presidential candidate, adding that Meekail’s approach would help ensure a fair and competitive primary process.

Solih concluded by urging MDP members in Hinnavaru to support Meekail, who is contesting as Candidate Number 3 in the election.