Former President Mohamed Nasheed has decided to contest for the position of Chairperson of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), while declaring his support for Fayyaz Ismail in the party’s upcoming presidential primary.
The announcement was made during a press conference this evening. Nasheed’s decision to back Fayyaz for the 2028 presidential election comes as the two leaders continue to work closely together within the party's internal operations.
In addition to Fayyaz, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is also expected to contest the presidential primary, which is anticipated to be held sometime next year.
If confirmed, Fayyaz will become the sixth individual to ever contest for the party's ticket.
In the MDP's inaugural primary held in 2008, three candidates competed: Nasheed, Dr. Mohamed Munavvar, and Moosa Manik (Reeko Moosa).
Nasheed ran unopposed in the 2013 presidential primary. He was also the sole candidate in the 2018 primary; however, the party’s presidential ticket was ultimately awarded to Solih via a national congress decision.
The most recent primary in 2023 saw a contest between Solih and Nasheed, which Solih won.
Nasheed previously served as the Chairperson of the MDP from 2005 to 2008. He also held the position of Party President from 2014 until 2023.
