MDP to welcome returning Nasheed, Democrats

The National Assembly of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has decided to welcome back former President Mohamed Nasheed and members of The Democrats who have opted to return to the party.

The decision was made during a special session of the MDP National Assembly held on Wednesday night to discuss developments following the announcement of Nasheed’s return to the party. A member present at the meeting, who requested anonymity, said there was unanimous agreement to welcome Nasheed and his associates back into the party.

“No one objected. Everyone agreed to welcome the Dems,” the member said.

The assembly discussed various ways to mark the occasion, including the possibility of a public meeting in a school hall or a larger rally. Some members proposed holding a special party meeting or gathering in the camp area, while others supported organising a rally.

MDP Chairman Fayyaz Ismail also expressed support for Nasheed’s return, describing it as timely given the current political climate.

In a post on X, Fayyaz stated that the MDP, which was formed during the democratic transition in the Maldives, has historically played a key role in addressing political challenges. He said the return of Nasheed and members of The Democrats would strengthen the party’s efforts to monitor government actions.

“At a time like this, when we need to be extremely vigilant about the government’s actions, the fact that President Nasheed and members of The Democrats have joined this party is yet another encouragement in this effort,” Fayyaz wrote.

Nasheed left the MDP in June 2023 following internal disputes and went on to form The Democrats with a group of former MDP members. His decision to return comes amid renewed discussions on political alliances and party unity.