Expelled MDP MP Abdulla Jabir Defiantly Pursues Re-election Bid for Kaashidhoo Seat
Photo: People’s Majlis
MP for Kaashidhoo Abdulla Jabir, who was recently expelled from the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has announced his intention to proceed with his candidacy for the parliamentary elections, vowing to defend the Kaashidhoo seat.
The decision to oust Jabir from the party and bar him from contesting under the MDP banner was made by the party’s disciplinary committee on Monday. This action followed a complaint regarding disciplinary matters.
Jabir, however, has stated his intention to appeal the committee’s decision through the MDP’s appeals process, and has also mentioned plans to take legal action against the party.
Expressing his apprehension over the decision, Jabir cited concerns regarding the infringement of his constitutional rights. Despite the setback, he remains steadfast in his determination to vie for the elections on behalf of the MDP.
Jabir emerged victorious in the MDP primary held on Saturday, securing 252 votes, while his opponent, Abdulla Riffath, trailed with 150 votes.
The controversy surrounding Jabir intensified last week when a video surfaced showing him engaging in verbally abusive behaviour and making obscene gestures towards members of the public, eliciting widespread condemnation.
Jabir’s history of being captured on video engaging in offensive language and gestures, both within and outside of Parliament, has been a recurring issue. He has faced expulsion from Parliament’s chambers on multiple occasions due to such incidents.