MDP urged to act on mandate, says Yameen

Former President Abdullah Yameen has stated that the public has assigned responsibilities to the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) following the recent local council elections and opinion polling.

The opposition MDP secured seats in the council and women’s committee elections held on Saturday. A majority of participants in a poll conducted on the same day opposed the proposal to merge the presidential and parliamentary elections.

Speaking at a rally at the People’s National Front (PNF) office Monday evening, Yameen said the MDP’s electoral outcome reflected its position as the only opposition party contesting at a time of public dissatisfaction with the government. He also noted a higher voter turnout in the council elections.

He stated that those dissatisfied with the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) should support alternative candidates.

Yameen said that electoral gains bring responsibility. He outlined that the public has given the MDP the authority to address the influence of the government, including state institutions. He added that the party has the mandate to challenge actions linked to the current administration and to prepare for the upcoming presidential election.

He further stated that these matters should be addressed within the next two years and that the party should not approach the public in 2028 without progress.

Addressing the MDP, Yameen said the party holds a position of responsibility and does not need to be in government to serve the public. He added that the public expects the party to hold the government accountable.

He also stated that the MDP should pursue cases with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the courts until such matters are resolved.

“There is no need for the MDP to remain silent now,” he said, adding that the party must act on the responsibilities that come with public support.