Nasheed Considers 2028 Presidential Run, Seeks Opinions from Political Circles

Former President Mohamed Nasheed is exploring a return to frontline politics with a potential bid in the 2028 presidential election. According to sources within the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Nasheed has begun reaching out to senior MDP officials and other political figures to seek their opinions on his possible candidacy.

Reaching Out for Support

According to senior MDP officials, Nasheed has privately messaged key figures to express his interest in contesting the 2028 election. He has reportedly asked for honest feedback and pledged to respect their opinions, even if they advise against him running.

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Rift with Solih and Departure from MDP

Nasheed, the country’s first democratically elected president under a multi-party system, parted ways with MDP after internal disagreements with his long-time ally and childhood friend, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The political split began during the 2019 Speaker of Parliament election, where Nasheed was elected Speaker, deepening during the 2023 MDP presidential primary in which Nasheed suffered a heavy defeat to Solih.

Tensions escalated further after an assassination attempt on Nasheed in 2021. His supporters accused Solih’s government of failing to deliver justice.

Formation of The Democrats and 2023 Election

Following his fallout with the MDP, Nasheed supported the formation of a new party — The Democrats. He did not contest the 2023 presidential election himself but backed Ilyas Labeeb, former member of Parliament, as the party’s candidate. The party received only 15,000 votes in that election.

Nasheed later formally resigned from the MDP and joined The Democrats. However, he spent the last months of his term abroad and resigned as Parliament Speaker on 13 November 2023 ahead of a scheduled impeachment vote.

Life Abroad and Current Role

Nasheed now serves as the Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF) and resides overseas. In early 2025, he announced that he would not take part in the political activities of either MDP or The Democrats at the moment, despite acknowledging the significance of both parties in his political journey.

He described the MDP as a “baby” and The Democrats as a platform that gave young people a voice, but confirmed he had no plans to actively engage with either organisation.

Calls for Unity and Shifting Allegiances

In April 2025, Nasheed, one of the  founding members of both the MDP and The Democrats publicly called for the reunification of the two parties, arguing it would benefit the country. Meanwhile, several senior Democrats — including staunch Nasheed loyalists — have already returned to the MDP.

Alhugandah fenna gothugai mi vaguthu Raajje ashaai, MDP ah, adhi Democrats ahves enme rangalhu gothakee MDP aai Democrats gulhun.— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) April 5, 2025

A Crowded Race for MDP’s 2028 Ticket

As Nasheed considers his options, the race for the MDP’s 2028 presidential ticket is intensifying. Party Chairperson and former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail has declared his candidacy. Former President Solih and party president Abdulla Shahid — the former President of the UN General Assembly — are also preparing for the primaries. South Hulhumalé MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed and current Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim are among other names being discussed as possible contenders.

A Possible Return to the Ballot

Nasheed previously contested the 2013 presidential election but lost to President Abdulla Yameen. If he enters the 2028 race, it could significantly shift the balance of power in Maldivian politics, potentially reigniting old rivalries and reshaping alliances within the MDP and beyond. Meanwhile, former President Yameen — a vocal critic of the current administration and President Dr Mohamed Muizzu — has also expressed interest in contesting the upcoming election. If both Nasheed and Yameen move forward with their bids, the 2028 race is set to become one of the most competitive and high-stakes presidential contests in recent history.