MDP national assembly to decide on extraordinary congress

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is set to hold a crucial meeting on Saturday evening to decide whether to call an extraordinary congress. The meeting, scheduled for 8:30 PM at the party office, is expected to address two critical items on the agenda that could shape the party’s future trajectory.

Ibrahim Waheed, the Deputy Chairman of MDP, confirmed to Dhauru that the gathering would focus on the formulation of a rapid response team of leadership and a significant decision regarding the holding of an extraordinary congress. The congress would come at a time of heightened tension within the party, with rumors swirling around the potential reshaping of its leadership.

The decision to convene the National Assembly is seen as a strategic move, particularly as the MDP navigates through internal disagreements and leadership dynamics. Sources suggest that former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, a key figure in the party, may be at the heart of a push to instigate changes within the MDP. It is believed that Solih is aiming to reshape the party’s leadership structure through an extraordinary congress.

The MDP's National Assembly is expected to deliberate on the growing need for changes in leadership, especially in light of the intense competition for the party’s presidential ticket. A host of party members have publicly expressed interest in running for the position, further fueling speculation about the future of the party.

Among the figures reportedly vying for the presidential ticket are MDP Chairman Fayyaz Ismail, who has already declared his interest in the primary race. The possibility of other contenders entering the fray has also been hinted at, with names like Ahmed Shamheed and MDP President Abdullah Shahid emerging as potential candidates.

In addition, supporters of former President Solih have reportedly initiated a campaign urging him to run for the presidential ticket. Despite the strong support from his base, rumors continue to swirl that Solih may be preparing to leave the party. Other significant figures, such as former Vice President Faisal Naseem, Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim, and former Vice President of Parliament Ahmed Saleem (Salle), are also said to be eyeing the presidential candidacy, adding to the competition within the MDP.

The party’s last extraordinary congress was held outside the regular schedule to facilitate the candidacy of former President Mohamed Nasheed, who had won the presidential primary but was unable to contest due to a jail sentence. This historical context highlights the gravity of an extraordinary congress for the MDP, making this weekend’s National Assembly meeting one of pivotal importance.