Fayyaz says Nasheed’s experience needed for MDP’s direction
Fayyaz said he believed Nasheed would win the election on the 12th of next month.
Former Maldivian Democratic Party Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail said on Tuesday night that while Meekail Ahmed Naseem is capable of leading the party, former President Mohamed Nasheed possesses the experience and vision required for the party’s current circumstances.
Fayyaz made the remarks during a campaign rally held for Nasheed in Thinadhoo ahead of the MDP chairperson election scheduled for next month.
The chairperson position became vacant following Fayyaz’s resignation from the post. At the time, he cited internal disputes within the party leadership as a reason for stepping down.
Meekail had initially announced his candidacy for the position before Nasheed later entered the race.
Speaking at the rally, Fayyaz said that when he became chairperson in 2022, his objective had been to reorganise and strengthen the party.
He stated that although the party initially gained momentum, internal divisions later weakened its direction.
According to Fayyaz, much of his focus during the past two and a half years had been on stabilising the party and preventing further decline.
He said that after reaching that point, it became clear that the party required a broader strategic shift.
Fayyaz outlined several points regarding the party’s future direction:
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The party now requires structural and organisational changes
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Returning to government would require reforms rather than maintaining existing structures
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The objective remains centred on governance reform
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The party needs leadership capable of guiding that transition
“This is a highly competitive election,” Fayyaz said.
“Our opponent, Meekail Naseem, is a young and capable individual who has served this party immensely and continues to do so. However, in our current situation, we believe that President Nasheed’s experience, wisdom, and vision are indispensable.”
Fayyaz said he believed Nasheed would win the election on the 12th of next month.
He also stated that no party member would be excluded after the election and that attention would then shift toward efforts to challenge the current administration.
Meanwhile, Meekail’s campaign has focused on leadership renewal within the party.
He has argued for reducing the concentration of influence among a small group of individuals and increasing opportunities for younger members and new leadership within the MDP.
