Nasheed announces intention to contest 2028 presidential election
Nasheed has since expressed interest in reuniting the MDP and the Democrats.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has announced his intention to contest the Maldives presidential election in 2028.
In a message sent to senior members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Wednesday, Nasheed stated his intention to run, asking for their views while adding that their relationship would not be affected regardless of their response. Several MDP members confirmed to Atoll Times that the message was sent by Nasheed, who is currently overseas and not active in domestic political affairs.
Nasheed served as President of the Maldives for three years and led the MDP for nearly 15 years. He left the party on 21 June 2023 following a dispute with former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Tensions between the two leaders began after Solih secured the MDP's presidential nomination in 2018, a year in which Nasheed was ineligible to run due to a criminal conviction.
During Solih’s presidency, political disagreements escalated, and their relationship deteriorated. Nasheed's influence within the party declined while Solih's position strengthened. The conflict culminated in the 2023 MDP presidential primary, where Solih defeated Nasheed. Nasheed later claimed irregularities in the voter list contributed to his loss.
Following the primary, Nasheed left the MDP and founded the Democrats. His departure is viewed as a key factor in Solih’s loss in the subsequent presidential election.
Nasheed has since expressed interest in reuniting the MDP and the Democrats. In April, he stated that merging the two parties would be the most viable political path for the Maldives.
Several figures within the MDP have also indicated their interest in the 2028 presidential race. Supporters of Solih have held meetings aimed at consolidating influence within the party. Sources confirm Solih is considering another presidential bid. The party’s chairperson Fayyaz Ismail announced his intention to contest the party’s primary late last year. Other potential candidates include MDP President Abdulla Shahid and Hulhumale South MP Ahmed Shamheed.
