MDP MPs apologise after backlash over cabinet approval vote
The move was criticised by supporters of former President Mohamed Nasheed, who is also contesting the election.
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Several Members of Parliament from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) issued public apologies on Thursday after criticism over their decision to vote in favour of members of President Mohamed Muizzu’s cabinet.
The issue arose during a period of internal competition for the party’s chairperson position.
Some lawmakers aligned with MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, who is contesting the post, supported ministerial confirmations in parliament. The move was criticised by supporters of former President Mohamed Nasheed, who is also contesting the election.
Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim said in a post on X that his vote in favour of Home Minister Ali Ihusaan had been a mistake.
He said the vote did not reflect support for the minister’s policies and was cast without sufficient consideration.
“I offer my sincere apologies and assure you that I will be more vigilant,” he said.
Hulhumalé South MP Ahmed Shamheed also apologised, saying he accepted responsibility for votes cast in favour of Ihusaan and several other ministers.
L. Maavashu MP Ahmed Shakir took a different position, suggesting that retaining ministers who could weaken the government might benefit the opposition ahead of the 2028 election.
“A hint is sufficient for the wise,” he wrote on X.
Meekail said he did not vote in favour of Ihusaan.
He cited concerns over allegations relating to misuse of Department of National Registration data for membership forms connected to the ruling People's National Congress (PNC), as well as issues relating to press freedom.
Meekail said members from both camps in the chairperson race had voted for different ministers under a free whip arrangement.
“This vote was not linked to the internal elections,” he said.
According to Meekail, only he and Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Ziyad voted against approving all cabinet members.
He added that, if elected chairperson, he would seek a greater role for the party’s National Council in decisions such as cabinet confirmations.
