The interim Chairperson of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, has urged National Council members to consider postponing the party’s internal leadership and constituency elections.
In a message sent to the MDP National Council’s WhatsApp group, Ghafoor proposed delaying the chairperson election and suggested that the leadership form a management committee—excluding himself—to oversee party operations in the interim.
"I am proposing that the senior leadership discuss and establish an interim arrangement for the party’s administration (excluding myself), and that this proposal be submitted to the National Council for approval," he stated.
Ghafoor suggested that the chairperson election be held after the presidential primary. He expressed concern that holding both the leadership and constituency elections at this time could compromise internal party harmony, thereby hindering the party's ability to hold the government accountable.
"My view regarding the chairperson and constituency elections is to hold them after the presidential primary. If these two elections are held now, it will disrupt internal stability and create obstacles in our efforts to hold the government accountable," Ghafoor said.
Furthermore, Ghafoor noted that the party is currently facing financial constraints. He highlighted that the government has yet to release any of the funds due to the party for this year, leaving the MDP without the necessary budget to manage operations or conduct elections.
Last night, former Chairperson of MDP, Fayyaz Ismail, expressed his opposition to delaying the party’s internal elections.
Responding to the proposal in a post on X, Fayyaz stated that the necessary funds could be secured and insisted there is no justification for a delay.
"There is no reason to postpone the election. Funds can be raised. The election should proceed as scheduled," Fayyaz said.
MP Meekail Naseem, who has announced his candidacy for the position, also voiced his opposition to any postponement.
"The attempt to delay the chairperson election is not something I or any member of this party will accept. The election must proceed according to the announced schedule. Do not interfere with the election to benefit specific individuals; respect the decision made by the committee. My team and I are fully prepared for the election," he said.
In addition to Meekail, former President Mohamed Nasheed is the only other candidate to have officially announced his intention to contest the election so far.
The MDP had previously scheduled the chairperson election for June 12.
