Ghafoor proposes delay to MDP chairperson election
The election to appoint a permanent chairperson is currently scheduled for 12 June.
Acting Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party, Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, has proposed postponing the party’s upcoming chairperson election.
Ghafoor was appointed to the interim post five months ago following the resignation of former chairperson Fayyaz Ismail.
The election to appoint a permanent chairperson is currently scheduled for 12 June.
The candidates are Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem and former President Mohamed Nasheed.
The contest comes amid divisions within the party.
In a message sent to the MDP National Council WhatsApp group on Friday, Ghafoor, who also represents Hanimaadhoo constituency in parliament, requested postponement of both the chairperson election and constituency-level elections.
According to the message, he cited concerns that proceeding with the vote at this time could affect internal unity and weaken efforts to hold the government accountable.
He also referred to financial constraints, stating that the party had not received government-mandated funding this year and lacked the resources required to conduct elections and manage operations.
Ghafoor proposed that senior party figures discuss an interim administrative arrangement excluding himself, and that the matter be submitted to the National Council for approval.
The proposal comes during a period of internal competition ahead of the vote.
Some members have also expressed dissatisfaction with Ghafoor remaining in the interim role. A petition signed by 55 members was recently submitted seeking his removal, though the matter was later addressed through internal discussions.
