President Nasheed Backs Fayyaz for MDP Primary, Sees No Reason for Solih to Run

Former President and Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed stated last night that he sees no reason why former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih should compete in the opposition party’s primary to select a candidate for the 2028 presidential election.

Speaking on SSTV’s Baaru Hathareh programme, former President Mohamed Nasheed reiterated his endorsement of former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail for the MDP’s upcoming presidential primary. While acknowledging that he retains strong support among party members to seek the ticket himself, Nasheed affirmed that he remains committed to backing Fayyaz. 

In response, the presenter asked Nasheed if he would remain out of the presidential primary even if former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih entered the contest.

Responding to the question, Nasheed remarked, “…Then again, I don’t see any reason why President Solih should run either. I really fail to see any compelling reason for him to contest.”

As outlined in the “Bodu Badhalu” manifesto which was unveiled during Nasheed’s successful bid for chairperson, he remains committed to securing the MDP presidential ticket for Fayyaz Ismail. In the event of an MDP election victory, the two leaders plan to work together to implement sweeping reforms to the country’s system of governance.

The governance reform proposed by both leaders is a hybrid model that blends key features of presidential and parliamentary systems.

Although Nasheed has stated he will back Fayyaz in the MDP primary, rumours suggest he might contest by the time the primary takes place. When asked if that remains a possibility, Nasheed reiterated last night that he firmly stands behind Fayyaz Ismail.

“This time, I am telling you, I stand in support of Fayyaz. We can speak at length or keep it brief, but what I am saying is that I stand behind Fayyaz,” Nasheed said.

Pressed on whether endorsing a candidate compromises his neutrality as MDP Chairperson, Nasheed noted that the role has limited oversight over the primary. He highlighted that he took office after openly declaring his support for Fayyaz, leaving no ambiguity among party members about his stance.

Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Fayyaz Ismail are currently the only candidates, who announced to run for the ticket, while former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih weighs a potential run with close allies.

advertisement

advertisement