Ex-home minister announces presidential bid

Former home minister Umar Naseer on Friday launched his campaign for the upcoming presidential election, saying that he will win the elections and rule the country in such a way that he will attain heaven after his rule is over.

Umar held a rally with supporters at Sultan Park on Friday evening to kick-start his campaign for the coming September elections.

The discussion at the meeting was based on what would be done if he wins the presidential election and is elected president. In Umar's speech, the most important point was the increasing role of Islamic Shariah in the governance of the state under his rule.

Highlighting the qualities that an Islamic ruler should possess, Umar said he was confident that people would see those qualities in him.

"He won’t lie. He won’t drink alcohol. He won't steal. He won't run after women. That's the nature of an Islamic ruler. God willing, I will show you those qualities in me," Umar said.

Umar said during his tenure:

Umar said one of the top priorities of his government would be to establish Islamic Sharia. He said he would rule "enough for heaven".

"I am still reminding myself today that I have to be accountable on the land of Mahshar, and by God's grace, I will remember that day a lot. If I rule, I will continue to rule enough to be granted heaven," Umar said.

With the presidential election getting closer, so far, the following have decided to contest the elections:

Meanwhile, it is being heard that JP leader Qasim Ibrahim and MDA leader and Meedhoo MP Ahmed Siyam Mohamed are also likely to contest the elections.