Kaashidhoo MP Abdulla Jabir has signed for the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
Speaking to reporters after the signing ceremony, Jabir said he rejoined the MDP because he wants to elect president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih for a second term and because those who did not want him in the party when he was previously a member were no longer in the MDP.
"I am 100 percent certain that [president Solih] will win. I will work in my full capacity, financially and otherwise," Jabir said.
Asked about the present deadlock in parliament, Jabir said parliament should be functional so close to the presidential election and that the MDP would find a solution and restore order.
President Solih characterized Jabir joining the MDP as a major boost and gain to the party and himself. The president said he expected Jabir's assistance in winning the upcoming election.
Jabir also provided assistance and worked very hard when he came to power in 2018, the president noted, adding that major success could be achieved in this election as well if Jabir works with the same passion and energy.
"As youth see it, among themselves they have accepted Jabir as their leader. So this is a very good time for Jabir to be joining," the president said, welcoming Jabir.
The president said further that more MPs and prominent politicians would join the MDP in the future.
When Jabir walked to the ceremony for signing to the MDP at Salt Cafe, he was accompanied by reporters and a boduberu (drum) group.
Jabir also recently signed a no-confidence motion submitted against the speaker of parliament.
Aside from the MDP MPs who initiated the effort, other MPs who signed the motion were Jabir, Thulusdhoo MP Ibrahim Naseem, Nolhivaram MP Mohamed Nasheed and Dhaalu Meedhoo MP Ahmed Siyam Mohamed.
