Yameen says he'd step aside in 2028 if credible alternative emerges

Former President Abdulla Yameen has said he would step aside from the 2028 presidential election if a candidate emerges who can convince him that they are capable of improving the Maldives’ economic situation and governing in the public interest.

Yameen made the remarks at a People’s National Front (PNF) gathering in Feydhoo, Addu City, on Friday night. His visit to Addu includes town hall meetings and the opening of PNF offices.

The former president, who has announced his intention to contest the 2028 election, made the comments in response to claims by government supporters that his criticism of the current administration was driven by a desire to return to power.

Yameen said the Maldives was carrying debt equivalent to about four years of state revenue and that the next administration would have to bear the burden of those obligations. He said leading the country under such circumstances would carry significant responsibility.

“I am not doing this because I want power,” Yameen said. “What I am saying here in Addu City today is that if people with the ability to deliver economic development in the way we envisage, while advancing the interests of the people, come forward and convince us, I am prepared to support them and step aside.”

Yameen said his priority was to see the public overcome the economic difficulties they currently face, regardless of who was in government.

He said he would be satisfied if another leader could achieve that objective, adding that returning to the presidency was not essential to him.

“Do not think that I am doing this because I am desperate for this position or because I am determined to secure it,” Yameen said. “Being president is no longer important to me.”

Yameen has in recent months criticised the government’s economic policies, including measures relating to foreign currency. He has argued that some of those measures could increase pressure on businesses and households.

His latest remarks come as the PNF continues political activities ahead of the 2028 presidential election. The Elections Commission lists Yameen as the president of the PNF.