Fayyaz, Meekail oppose delay to MDP chairperson election

Former Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party Fayyaz Ismail and Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem have opposed a proposal to postpone the party’s chairperson election.

The election is scheduled for 12 June. However, acting chairperson Abdul Ghafoor Moosa proposed during a National Council meeting on Friday night that the vote be delayed.

In a post on X, Fayyaz said there was no reason to postpone the election and called for it to be held sooner.

“There is no reason to delay the election. Funds can be secured. We should proceed with the election sooner,” he said.

Fayyaz is backing former President Mohamed Nasheed in the contest.

Meekail, who is also contesting the post, said the election should proceed according to the announced schedule.

“The attempt to delay the party's chairperson election is unacceptable to me and to any member of this party,” he said in a post on X.

“Do not manipulate the election to favour specific individuals; respect the committee's decision. My team and I are ready for the election.”

Ghafoor also proposed postponement of constituency-level elections.

He cited concerns that holding the elections now could affect party unity and weaken efforts to hold the government accountable.

He also said the party faces financial constraints, noting that it has not received state funds due for this year and lacks the resources to conduct elections and manage operations.

Ghafoor, who also represents Hanimaadhoo constituency in parliament, proposed that party leaders discuss the matter before submitting it to the National Council for a final decision.