Nasheed calls for peaceful political change, sets vision for MDP

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called on the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to promote political change through peaceful means, stating that the party can present an example to other countries.

Speaking at a campaign rally on Tuesday evening, Nasheed said the MDP should demonstrate how a government can be changed without the use of force or violence. He said there is interest from other countries in such an approach.

“In many places, people are urging me to speak about this. It is my vision for MDP to assist the world in this regard,” he said.

Nasheed said some countries rely on military action to remove governments, but added that the Maldives has shown that change can take place through political activity. He said this experience could be shared with other countries.

“A single bomb can cost a million dollars, whereas establishing a political party does not even cost a hundred thousand dollars. Therefore, this approach can be implemented worldwide,” he said.

Nasheed also referred to the need for change within the Maldives, including constitutional reform and changes in conduct and standards. He said the MDP is positioned to lead these changes.

He expressed his intention to lead the party’s administration and said he aims for the MDP to return to government in 2028. Nasheed said he would be able to guide the party in this effort if elected chairperson.

“This is a task the MDP is well-acquainted with. As the Chairperson of MDP, I am confident that we can embark on this journey together and achieve success,” he said.