Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid has announced that he will not endorse any specific candidates in the party's upcoming internal elections.
In a post on social media X last night, Shahid stated that the MDP introduced the philosophy of political pluralism to the Maldives and set the standard for how political parties should function.
He described the upcoming constituency and leadership elections as the beginning of a unified effort by party members to secure victory in the 2028 presidential election.
"As the President of the party, taking sides in internal elections is not a principle I believe in," Shahid said.
Shahid further urged as many members as possible to participate and cast their votes. He noted that the MDP has always been a party that "finds joy through the ballot."
While Shahid has pledged neutrality, three individuals have already expressed interest in the Chairperson’s position. They include Galolhu South MP Meekail Naseem, former President Mohamed Nasheed, and former MP Alhan Fahmy.
Competition between internal party factions has intensified during this election cycle. While the faction led by Fayyaz Ismail supports Nasheed, Meekail enjoys the backing of the faction aligned with former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and several MPs.
