Only MDP govts delivered for Addu, says Nasheed
Speaking at the event, Nasheed said the people of Addu were already familiar with Sodiq and his record of public service.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called on voters in the Hithadhoo North by-election to support Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Abdulla Sodiq, arguing that the two administrations led by the MDP delivered the most significant development and social programmes in Addu City.
Nasheed made the remarks during the MDP’s final campaign rally held at Hithadhoo School on Thursday night ahead of Saturday’s by-election.
The rally was attended by former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, senior MDP leaders and party supporters.
Speaking at the event, Nasheed said the people of Addu were already familiar with Sodiq and his record of public service.
“The people of Hithadhoo know exactly how they should vote. You will not find any development or social progress in Addu that was not initiated by an MDP government,” Nasheed said.
He pointed to a number of policies and programmes introduced during MDP administrations, including allowances for senior citizens, single mothers and persons with disabilities, the introduction of a minimum wage, healthcare assistance and infrastructure projects in Addu.
“All of this infrastructure development you see in Addu City belongs to the MDP,” he said.
Nasheed also addressed the country's economic challenges, stating that the Maldives faces increasing debt-related pressures and that parliament requires representatives capable of understanding complex economic issues.
He argued that voters should elect a candidate who can engage with national policy issues and represent the interests of Addu effectively in parliament.
“You should elect someone who understands these issues and can represent you in parliament,” Nasheed said.
The by-election was triggered after former People’s National Congress (PNC) MP Mohamed Sinan lost his parliamentary seat following a court ruling related to a debt case.
Although Sinan initially secured the PNC nomination to contest the seat again, he later withdrew. The ruling party subsequently nominated Ahmed Saeed as its candidate.
Referring to Saeed, Nasheed said he believed the candidate shared many views traditionally associated with the MDP, but urged voters to support Sodiq instead.
“If you want an MDP representative in parliament, then you must vote for Sobe,” Nasheed said, using Sodiq’s commonly known nickname.
Nasheed concluded his remarks by describing Sodiq as a candidate who understands the needs of Addu and has experience in public service.
The Hithadhoo North by-election will be held on Saturday, with voters choosing between MDP candidate Abdulla Sodiq and PNC candidate Ahmed Saeed.
