Sitting MDP chair shouldn't seek presidential ticket, says Nasheed

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has said it is not appropriate for a sitting chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to contest the party's presidential primary, adding that an amendment to the party's charter to formalise the practice would be a positive step.

Nasheed, who was elected MDP chairperson earlier this year, made the remarks during a press conference at the party headquarters on Sunday.

During the recent chairperson election, Nasheed campaigned alongside former MDP chairperson Fayyaz Ismail after publicly endorsing Fayyaz's bid for the party's presidential nomination.

Ahead of the party's congress, there has been speculation that a proposal will be submitted to amend the MDP constitution to prevent a sitting chairperson from contesting the presidential primary before the end of their term.

Fayyaz has also previously proposed making the position of party chairperson a full-time role, which would prevent the office-holder from seeking other party or state leadership positions while serving in the post.

Asked by Dhauru whether he would support such an amendment, Nasheed said any changes to the party's constitution should be decided by the MDP congress, which is expected to be held in September.

He added that he does not believe it is appropriate for a serving chairperson to seek the party's presidential nomination.

"It is not appropriate for someone serving as chairperson to vie for the MDP presidential ticket. I do not view it as a good practice for an individual to enter the presidential race while remaining in the chairperson's seat," Nasheed said.

When asked again whether he personally supported the proposed amendment, he replied: "Yes, what I am saying is that it is not right for a sitting chairperson to contest for the presidential ticket."

Several senior MDP figures are expected to compete for the party's presidential nomination. In addition to Fayyaz Ismail, those widely reported to be preparing for the contest include MDP President Abdulla Shahid, Hulhumalé South MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed and former Vice President Faisal Naseem.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has not publicly confirmed whether he intends to contest the primary.

Nasheed served as the MDP's first chairperson from June 2005 until February 2008, when he resigned to contest the party's presidential primary. He went on to win both the primary and the presidential election that year.

He was also the MDP's presidential candidate in 2013 and was initially selected for the 2018 election before the party nominated Solih after Nasheed was unable to contest because of his conviction at the time.