Fayyaz says MDP members have chosen a new direction for the party

Former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail said on Friday night that party members had demonstrated their support for the "Bodu Badhalu" (The Big Change) campaign in the party's chairperson election.

Voting in the election concluded at 9:00 pm after polling began at 2:30 pm. Vote counting is ongoing across the country.

Provisional results received so far show former President Mohamed Nasheed leading the contest ahead of Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem.

As early results emerged, supporters of Nasheed began congratulating him on social media and at party gatherings.

Nasheed and Fayyaz have campaigned together under the "Bodu Badhalu" banner, advocating changes to the country's system of governance. Nasheed has previously said that winning the party chairperson post would be the first step towards pursuing those reforms.

In a post on X, Fayyaz said the outcome reflected the wishes of party members.

"MDP members have proven they are ready for a big change. With the votes you cast for President Nasheed, the work to bring 'The Big Change' to this Maldives has commenced today. MDP onwards!" he said.

Fayyaz also stated that party members had demonstrated their role in determining the direction of the MDP and had prioritised the future of the country when casting their votes.

He thanked members who participated in the election and acknowledged the efforts of Meekail and his campaign team during the contest.

Fayyaz further called for unity within the party following the election, saying the next step would be to work together in opposition to the current government.

He said the MDP should move forward as a united party in preparation for future political contests.

Final results of the chairperson election have not yet been announced.