Ghafoor refuses to resign despite no-confidence petition

Abdul Ghafoor Moosa has stated that he will not resign from his position as Interim Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), despite a petition submitted by members of the party’s National Council seeking his removal.

On Wednesday, 55 of the 123 National Council members submitted a request to convene a meeting to hold a no-confidence vote against Ghafoor.

The move follows internal disagreements within the party, including the exclusion of former President Mohamed Nasheed from the speaking agenda at a rally held earlier this week. It also follows the removal of Ahmed Maaroof and Ibrahim Waheed from their positions.

The effort to remove Ghafoor is supported by members aligned with Nasheed and former party chairperson Fayyaz Ismail.

Responding to questions from Dhauru, Ghafoor said he had not taken any action that would require him to step down. He stated that the positions held by Maaroof and Ibrahim Waheed were appointments under the authority of the Chairperson.

“I decided not to proceed with them in their roles because they were not providing the necessary cooperation. I have acted within the framework of the party’s constitution,” he said.

Some National Council members have argued that individuals elected to party positions should remain in office until the end of their term, and that the removal of Ibrahim Waheed does not comply with party regulations.

Ghafoor also said the petition does not represent a majority of the council. He stated that he would not resign regardless of the number of signatures.

“Even if 100 members sign, I am not obligated to resign, and I will not do so. They must proceed with a formal vote. I will only vacate the position if the National Council passes a motion to remove me,” he said.

He added that arrangements for the National Council meeting have been assigned to Ahmed Abdulla.