MDP plans early presidential primary ahead of 2028 election
Although the MDP has not announced a date, party sources said that discussions are underway to schedule the primary in 2027.
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The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is expected to hold its presidential primary next year to select its candidate for the 2028 presidential election, according to senior party sources.
The party held its primary for the 2023 presidential election in February of that year. However, several senior figures are now said to favour holding the next primary about a year before the presidential election.
Although the MDP has not announced a date, party sources told Dhauru that discussions are underway to schedule the primary in 2027.
"The best strategy for the party would be to project our presidential candidate as early as possible. With that in mind, it is highly likely the primary will be held within next year to showcase our candidate," a senior MDP official said.
Under Article 61 of the MDP constitution, the party's National Council must appoint a five-member committee to organise and oversee the presidential primary.
In previous elections, the date of the primary has been set either by the National Council or by the committee appointed for that purpose.
Earlier this month, MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed said the timing of the primary should be decided by the party's internal bodies rather than by any individual.
"I am the one presiding over the chair. I shouldn't be someone who enforces a personal agenda," Nasheed said during his first press conference since assuming the role of chairperson.
Former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail is the only party member to have publicly announced his intention to contest the presidential primary.
Former Foreign Minister and MDP President Abdulla Shahid is also widely expected to seek the party's nomination and has begun meeting party members.
Former Vice President Faisal Naseem, Malé City Mayor Adam Azim and Hulhumalé South MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed have also been mentioned as possible contenders, although none has formally announced a candidacy.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has not said whether he intends to contest the primary.
Nasheed has previously stated that he will not contest the presidential primary and has publicly endorsed Fayyaz Ismail.
