Meekail says party unity key to avoiding repeat of 2023 split and winning 2028

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) chairperson candidate and Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem has said his priority is to ensure the party enters the 2028 presidential election united, warning against a repeat of the divisions that emerged ahead of the 2023 presidential contest.

Speaking at a rally held at Artificial Beach on Wednesday night to conclude his "Ithubaaru" (Trust) campaign for Friday's MDP chairperson election, Meekail said he entered the race with the goal of preserving unity within the party.

He said that when he announced his candidacy last November, he did so with the hope of leading the MDP into the next presidential election as a single political movement.

"The hope that harmony can be maintained within the ranks of this party under my chairpersonship was strengthened by the support I received from members and the party leadership when I announced my candidacy," Meekail said.

Meekail, who joined MDP activities as a teenager and is serving his second term in Parliament, said members had placed their trust in him because of his service to the party over the years and their belief that he would act fairly.

The election pits Meekail against former President Mohamed Nasheed, who served as the MDP's first chairperson.

Meekail said he had entered the race months before Nasheed announced his candidacy and had not intended to contest against the former president.

"I entered this election months ago, not to compete against a mentor whom I deeply respect. However, circumstances have led to this contest," he said.

The 32-year-old MP said his candidacy also reflected the need to create opportunities for younger members within the party. He pledged to provide pathways for youth to hold senior positions in the MDP.

"Under my chairpersonship, I will ensure opportunities are available for young people to reach the highest positions in this party," he said.

During his speech, Meekail also addressed comments made during the campaign by Nasheed and his supporters.

He argued that party unity could not be maintained by aligning with one faction or potential presidential candidate over others.

"The reality today is that several individuals are interested in contesting the next presidential election, and each has supporters within this party," Meekail said.

He warned that favouring one side could create divisions as the MDP prepares for the 2028 election.

According to Meekail, all members interested in seeking the party's presidential ticket should be given an equal opportunity.

"We do not want to see this party divided again. We do not want to see the leadership split. The purpose of this election is to keep the ranks of this party together as we move towards 2028," he said.

Meekail concluded his speech by pledging to remain with the party and work to maintain unity regardless of the outcome of future internal contests.