Meekail Pledges Greater Transparency in MDP Finances if Elected Chairperson

MP for South Galolhu Meekail Ahmed Naseem, who is contesting for the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson post, said he would ensure greater transparency in the party’s finances, particularly regarding funding received through the state.

Speaking at the Ithubaaru Kanmathee Bahdhaluvun, a corner meeting held as part of his “Ithubaaru” campaign in Malé yesterday evening, Meekail said concerns over party operations had emerged consistently during his visits to islands.

He said many members had raised concerns about how state-provided funding for political parties is used, noting that financial transparency remains a key issue within the party.

Meekail questioned why a clear system for financial accountability had not been established over the party’s 20-year history.

He said that if elected chairperson, he would introduce full transparency in the party’s financial management, including detailed oversight of all expenditures. He added that party funds must be used directly for the benefit and development of members.

South Hulhumalé MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed, speaking at the meeting, said the chairperson election, scheduled for June 12, 2026, represents a key step towards the 2028 presidential election. He said the vote would determine a leader capable of guiding the country forward and urged MDP members to support Meekail.

General members of the MDP attended the meeting, while Meekail’s campaign team said the “Ithubaaru” initiative aims to listen to member concerns and rebuild trust within the party.

According to the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM), MDP received MVR 8,454,780.51 in political party funding in September 2025, out of a total of MVR 27.9 million distributed among five eligible parties. The allocation was based on registered membership as of 31 December 2024, with each member valued at MVR 193.23. The People’s National Congress (PNC) received MVR 13,316,689.57 during the same period.

As per ECM records, MDP had 43,784 registered members as of December 2025, while PNC recorded 74,048 members. The Jumhooree Party was the only other party with more than 10,000 members, with 12,343 registered members.