MDP Candidates Pledge Party Loyalty in Parliamentary Campaign Launch

Candidates vying for seats in the upcoming parliamentary election under the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) banner have made a solemn pledge to uphold party loyalty throughout their term if elected.

The commitment was made during a ceremony held at Usfasgandu last night to kick off MDP’s parliamentary campaign, dubbed ‘Misraabu Hama Magah’. Party Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail presided over the proceedings, administering the oath to the assembled candidates.

In addition to affirming their allegiance to the party for the duration of their electoral tenure, the candidates pledged to adhere to both the party’s constitution and regulations, as well as those of the parliamentary group.

MDP, which currently holds 65 seats in the ongoing 19th parliamentary assembly, has faced challenges with defections in recent times. Internal disputes led to the departure of several party members mid-last year, who later formed a new political entity. Subsequently, on December 28, an additional 13 lawmakers joined the ruling Progressive National Party (PNC).

As a result, MDP’s representation in parliament has dwindled to 41 seats, making the PNC the minority party with 16 lawmakers.