Former VP Faisal Naseem Reportedly Preparing MDP Primary Bid with Former President Solih’s Support

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem is reportedly preparing to contest the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) presidential primary for the 2028 election with the support of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Several media reports have said Faisal has decided to enter the primary with Mayor Adam Azim as his running mate. 

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MV+ has contacted Faisal, President Solih and Mayor Azim for confirmation, but had not received a response at the time of publication. 

Faisal met with former president Solih on Sunday to discuss the presidential primary, with media reports stating that Faisal met the former president to garner his support for his bid for the ticket. After the meeting, Solih reportedly decided to provide his support for Faisal. 

The reported development comes as competition for the MDP presidential ticket continues to grow. Former MDP chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has announced his intention to contest the primary, with backing from former President and current MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed.

Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid also announced his candidacy for the MDP presidential primary in August and subsequently resigned as the party’s president. 

South Hulhumalé MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed has also announced his intention to contest the primary. The MDP has yet to announce a date for its presidential primary, although party officials have indicated that it is expected to be held in 2027. 

Meanwhile, the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) has formally awarded President Dr Mohamed Muizzu its presidential ticket for the 2028 election without requiring him to contest a primary.

The decision followed a resolution approved unanimously by 1,119 members during a special session of the PNC Congress on September 17. The ticket was formally presented to Muizzu at the closing ceremony of the congress the following day.