Solih to contest MDP presidential primary for 2028 election
Nasheed has publicly endorsed former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail, who has already announced his intention to seek the party’s nomination.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has decided to contest the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) presidential primary to secure the party’s nomination for the 2028 presidential election, according to sources within the party.
Solih, who had previously stated in several interviews that he had not yet decided whether to seek the presidency again, reportedly reached the decision following discussions with a group of close political allies on Wednesday.
Although Solih has not formally announced his candidacy, two senior MDP sources confirmed to Dhauru that he decided to enter the primary after consultations with key figures within the party.
According to the sources, Solih sought the views of several senior MDP members who had also been considering a presidential bid and obtained their support before making his decision.
Those consulted reportedly include former Vice President Faisal Naseem, Malé City Mayor Adam Azim and Hulhumalé South MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed. None of the three has publicly commented on the matter.
Sources said the three figures have indicated their support for Solih, while discussions have also been held with other stakeholders within the party.
A senior MDP source said the party’s presidential primary is increasingly expected to centre on a contest between Solih and former President Mohamed Nasheed as preparations begin for the 2028 election.
In the MDP presidential primary held in February 2023, Solih defeated Nasheed to secure the party’s nomination. However, he later lost the presidential election to opposition candidate Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who subsequently assumed office as President.
Nasheed has repeatedly stated that he does not intend to contest the MDP presidential primary. Instead, he has publicly endorsed former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail, who has already announced his intention to seek the party’s nomination.
MDP President Abdulla Shahid has also expressed interest in contesting the primary. While Shahid is understood to be meeting party members and building support, he has not formally declared his candidacy.
The MDP has not yet announced a date for its presidential primary. However, party sources say preparations are underway to hold the contest sometime next year as the party begins selecting its candidate for the 2028 presidential election.
