Nasheed: MDP’s renewed momentum a threat to the government

Former president Mohamed Nasheed states Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has become highly active, speaking to reporters after casting his vote in the party’s internal election to elect a new Chairperson on Friday.

Voting in the election kicked off at 14:30pm in the afternoon and is set to continue until 20:30pm tonight.

The election follows weeks of intense campaigning. Nasheed, who is contesting in the election, along with his supporters, concluded his campaign with a colorful parade last night, while his rival, South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, wrapped up his campaign activities with a rally on Thursday.

Speaking with reporters after casting his vote at the polling station established at Galolhu School, Nasheed commended the smooth arrangements that have been made for the election, adding he was happy to see it.

"Despite the adverse weather, members are undeterred, arriving one after the other to cast their ballots," Nasheed observed.

He called on as many members as possible to cast their votes without delay, regardless of weather conditions, expressing confidence that turnout would be high.

"The MDP has become significantly active," he added.

Nasheed said the party’s presence, music, and political messages are now evident across the country, describing this as a significant challenge for the current administration. He also reiterated his view that the popularity of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has declined considerably.

The election is regarded as politically significant for the MDP, marking the first major internal contest involving Nasheed since his return to the party after leaving ahead of the last presidential election to form a new political party, The Democrats. Supporters of Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who is backing Meekail in the election, argue that Nasheed’s actions at the time contributed to the party’s defeat in the 2023 presidential race.

Meanwhile, Nasheed’s supporters contend that the party drifted away from its founding principles during Solih’s administration and that Nasheed was systematically marginalized. As such, the Chairperson election is widely viewed as a pivotal contest that will determine which faction gains control over the party’s future direction.