Maldives Needs ‘Big Change’ Led by MDP, Says Nasheed

Former President Mohamed Nasheed said he returned to the Maldives’ political environment because he believes the changes the Maldivian people can bring are with the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) at the helm.

Until recently, Nasheed was serving as Secretary General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF), away from domestic politics. He reentered Maldivian politics earlier this month.

Speaking at a rally held in Galolhu last evening, Nasheed said he is back in the Maldives to begin what he described as a significant political journey, as he campaigns for the MDP chairperson position. His campaign, “Bodu Badhalu” or “Big Change,” focuses on reforms he said are necessary for the country, with support from party members.

He referred to divisions within the MDP in recent years, which saw several senior figures leave the party ahead of the last presidential election.

“These changes can only be achieved by the MDP. This is not something I can do alone; it will only be realised if we work together,” he said.

Nasheed said he attends such gatherings during significant moments, noting that while the Constitution has brought major benefits, it has also led to challenges for ordinary citizens, including access to food and medicine and rising fuel costs.

He warned that without reforms, the country risks losing progress made in recent years, particularly amid global instability and the Maldives’ strategic location in the Indian Ocean.

“This time is if we do not bring these changes, if we do not build upon the advances we have obtained, we may slip from where we are. We may likely slip.”

He said reforms are needed to sustain benefits such as free textbooks, healthcare, and housing, adding that these gains could be at risk without further progress.

Nasheed also highlighted the impact of the 2008 Constitution on economic growth, noting that state revenue increased significantly following its adoption, enabling the introduction of a tax system. He pointed to freedoms of expression and assembly, as well as the establishment of a multi-party system, as key achievements.

He said there is now both a risk of regression and an opportunity to advance further, stressing the importance of strengthening institutions, particularly the MDP.

“We can make these changes, and we can make them if we make MDP an even stronger institution. From the institutions in the Maldives, one of the strongest is MDP,” he said.

Nasheed added that the MDP engages not only with its members but also with the wider public, and stressed the importance of protecting press freedom.

Referring to a police raid on Adhadhu News that was ongoing during the rally, he warned against attempts to undermine media freedom.

“Do not try to take away press freedom. We will not back down. We will go forward.”