MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has said the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is ready to "sincerely and wholeheartedly" welcome former President Mohamed Nasheed and members of The Democrats as they prepare to return to the party.
Two years after leaving the MDP, Nasheed’s newly formed party, The Democrats, announced its decision yesterday to dissolve and rejoin the MDP. The move marks a significant realignment in opposition politics.
Following an informal meeting of the MDP National Council held last night to discuss the development, Fayyaz told Adhadhu that the Council is united in support of the return.
"The spirit [of National Council members] is to sincerely and wholeheartedly welcome them. We are very happy about their decision to join us,” he said.
Fayyaz acknowledged that Nasheed’s departure, along with that of several key members, had been a setback for the party. He cited unresolved internal tensions and dissatisfaction following the outcome of the 2023 presidential primary as key reasons behind the split. However, he said their return presents an opportunity to move forward.
"Their return is very important in building the future. We will work together with everyone who is willing to join us to bring the Maldives back on the right track," he said.
Asked whether the party would organise any special event to mark Nasheed and The Democrats’ return, Fayyaz said such details would be discussed after consultation with them.
Alongside Nasheed, former Deputy Speaker of Parliament Eva Abdulla and other senior Democrats members have also decided to rejoin the MDP. The reunification comes at a time when internal competition for the party’s 2028 presidential ticket is already beginning to heat up.
