Fayyaz says MDP needs a leader with broad public support as chairperson
Fayyaz said that only a small number of party members remain focused on disagreements stemming from the last presidential election.
Former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has said the party can only strengthen its position if it is led by a chairperson who enjoys broad support among the Maldivian public.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Hulhumalé on Friday night, Fayyaz argued that the party requires a leader capable of uniting members and attracting wider public support as it prepares for future elections.
The MDP is currently holding an internal election to choose a new chairperson following Fayyaz's resignation from the post. The contest is between former President Mohamed Nasheed and Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem.
Fayyaz has publicly backed Nasheed's candidacy and has accompanied him during campaign events and visits to islands across the country.
Addressing supporters, Fayyaz said that only a small number of party members remain focused on disagreements stemming from the last presidential election.
He said that during recent campaign visits, many members had expressed the view that the party must unite if it hopes to secure victory in the 2028 presidential election.
His remarks come amid continuing debate within the party over the events leading up to the 2023 presidential election, when disputes between Nasheed and former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih resulted in Nasheed and his supporters leaving the MDP.
Fayyaz said ordinary party members now recognise the need to move beyond those divisions.
Fayyaz argued that the MDP's challenge is not a lack of capable individuals, but the need for leadership that can command support both within the party and among the wider electorate.
"Our problem is not a shortage of capable people within this party. But under the current circumstances, we need a particular type of leader," Fayyaz said.
He added that Nasheed remains a political figure whose views continue to resonate with many Maldivians.
Fayyaz said his recent travels had reinforced his belief that many party members see Nasheed as the person best placed to lead the party at this stage.
The chairperson election has become one of the most closely watched internal contests in the MDP in recent years.
While Fayyaz and his supporters are campaigning for Nasheed, Meekail's campaign is backed by former President Solih and several of his allies within the party.
The outcome of the vote is expected to shape the MDP's direction as it prepares for future national elections.
