Nasheed meets MDP chief Fayyaz after presidential bid intention

Former President Mohamed Nasheed, who recently expressed interest in contesting the 2028 presidential election, returned to the Maldives Sunday and held meetings with Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairman Fayyaz Ismail.

According to sources, Nasheed and Fayyaz met twice—first at Fayyaz’s residence in Malé Sunday night and later Monday at the Democrats’ office. A photograph of their initial meeting has also been circulated.

While the contents of the discussions have not been officially disclosed, the meetings come amid speculation about Nasheed potentially rejoining the MDP. Responding to questions regarding the purpose of the meetings, Nasheed stated only that the meeting took place, declining to provide further details.

Nasheed, who is currently residing in Ghana, led the MDP for nearly 15 years and served as President of the Maldives from 2008 to 2012. He left the MDP on 21 June 2023 following internal disputes with then President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The conflict between Nasheed and Solih intensified during Solih’s administration. Nasheed lost the MDP primary for the 2023 presidential election to Solih, a result he alleged was influenced by irregularities in the party’s membership list.

Following the loss, Nasheed left the MDP and formed the Democrats, a new political party. His departure and the formation of the Democrats are considered by observers to be among the factors that contributed to the MDP’s defeat in the 2023 presidential election.