Nasheed urges members to vote for direction that revived MDP activity

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called on Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members to vote in favour of what he described as renewed momentum within the party, saying recent campaign activities have brought members back into political engagement across the country.

Nasheed made the remarks during an interview with Sangu TV on Thursday night while participating in a march held to conclude his campaign for the MDP chairperson election.

According to Nasheed, campaign events held in islands across the Maldives have attracted large numbers of supporters and demonstrated increased participation in party activities.

He said the campaign's closing event in Malé also drew a large turnout.

"It is a source of great satisfaction that the MDP can once again fill the streets of the Maldivian islands, as well as the streets of Malé. All members can see the level of enthusiasm in the country. It is highly important that all members' votes go in that direction," Nasheed said.

Nasheed argued that the increased participation seen during the campaign was linked to efforts undertaken by his team during the chairperson race.

He also said the party's "Yellow Army" had been mobilised once again and reiterated his pledge to intensify efforts to bring about political change if elected chairperson.

The MDP chairperson election will be held on Friday, with voting scheduled from 2:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Three candidates are contesting the election: former President Mohamed Nasheed, Ibrahim Mohamed and Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem.

While three candidates are on the ballot, the contest has largely centred on Nasheed and Meekail during the campaign period.