Party not weakened by exit of leadership: Democrats

Jan 12, 2025, 1:46 PM

The Democrats are not weakened by the exit of several senior members of their leadership, including their President and Vice President, the opposition-aligned party said today.

Speaking at a press conference today, former Inguraidhoo MP Mohamed Waheed (Wadde) said many things come to an end with each day but it also creates new hopes.

"Our party will not be weakened... Hopefully, we will go forward with our work," he said with a reference to changing monsoons.

Democrats President Hassan Latheef, Vice President Mohamed Shifaz, the party's running mate in the 2023 presidential election Hussain Amr and former MP Ali Azim left the party to join the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

Wadde welcomed their "personal political" decision and described them as politically strong leaders.

The party's Vice President Hussain Firushan said there were no problems within the party. But he noted that there could be some political differences that led to their decision to quit the party.

"We have never had any problems with them and I don't think such a thing can happen in the future. But this is politics, right? Since this is politics, there can be political differences," Firushan said.

The Democrats Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)

Comments

Yameen endorses MDP candidate in Hithadhoo North by-election

Jun 1

PNC’s Ahmed Saleem elected Majlis Deputy Speaker

Jun 1

4121 eligible voters in Hithadhoo North by-election

May 25

Meekail pledges inclusivity in MDP regardless of internal affiliations

May 25

Latest News

Suspect arrested for repeated public nuisance escapes facility

Ahmed Fairish, a man arrested for public nuisance and harassment, has escaped from a drug treatment facility in Himmafushi. He was transferred there under police supervision following his recent arrest on October 17. Authorities are currently searching for the suspect, who has a history of criminal behavior and making death threats.

PNC secures both seats in election for LGA board

The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) won both seats in the election for the Local Government Authority board. PNC candidates Ali Ahmed and Maryam Zeena defeated their MDP rivals to represent local councils and Women’s Development Committees. The election occurred alongside the unopposed appointment of Kulhudhuffushi Mayor Mohamed Athif.

"MDP will end Rasmale' deal if it goes without consultation"

MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail warned that a future MDP government will terminate the Rasmalé project if it proceeds without public consultation. He opposes granting land to UAE’s Eagle Hills indefinitely, citing concerns over national sovereignty and the lack of acquisition costs. Fayyaz urged President Muizzu to allow for public debate.

Milestone as Thilamale Bridge connects Villimale and Gulhifalhu

The Thilamale Bridge has reached a major milestone by physically connecting Villimale and Gulhifalhu, creating a continuous link from Male'. Developed by Afcons Infrastructure, the project is now slated for completion in September 2026. Construction progressed through multiple phases despite political disputes over the project's timeline.

Sukuk or bond issue listed in budget for 2027

The government plans to issue a $175 million international bond or sukuk in 2027 to manage foreign debt, part of a $675 million three-year borrowing strategy. Despite past failures to enter the market and a "junk" credit rating, officials hope this move will ease financial pressure following a major reserve drawdown for previous repayments.

Government to deploy an AI-powered smart traffic system in Male'

The Maldives government has included an AI-powered "Smart Traffic Enforcement System" in next year’s budget to tackle congestion in Malé. Part of the "Maldives 2.0" policy, the initiative aims to modernize traffic monitoring through digitalization. The plan also includes a new data center and digital ID system to improve public services.

"President does not have authority to allow non-Muslim residency"

Former Chief Justice Dr. Ahmed Abdulla Didi argues that the President lacks the constitutional authority to grant long-term residency to non-Muslims in Rasmalé. He asserts that such sovereign power belongs solely to the people. Didi also criticized Jamiyyathul Salaf for supporting the government's plan under specific conditions.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox