Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said that it is not the right choice for former President Mohamed Nasheed to contest the upcoming MDP Chairperson election on June 12, asserting that it is time to pave the way for new leadership.
Speaking at a rally held last night in his home island of Lhaviyani Hinnavaru to garner support for Galolhu South MP Meekail Naseem, Solih emphasized that he, Nasheed, and former President Yameen should focus their efforts on addressing the major challenges facing the nation.
Solih noted that it is far more critical for the three former presidents to remain committed to the work of the United Democratic Front, which was formed to resolve national issues.
"I do not believe this is an election President Nasheed should be contesting. Instead, he should remain with us in the United Democratic Front to continue the work we three presidents started to reform the country and address the issues we face today," Solih said.
While expressing respect for Nasheed’s contributions to both the party and the nation, Solih explained that his decision to endorse Meekail was based on his political experience and a vision for the party’s future.
Highlighting that the MDP has always been a party that fosters new leaders and encourages competition, Solih remarked that it is a point of pride for the party to see a newcomer challenge Nasheed—the party’s first Chairperson—with a robust campaign. He added that this democratic spirit is the reason the party has endured for the past 21 years.
"No matter how senior a member may be, the opportunity to contest and campaign against them remains open within this party. This is another reason why I am proud of this party," Solih said.
Solih pointed out that while 40 percent of the voting population in the upcoming presidential election consists of youth, only 17 percent of MDP’s current membership falls into that demographic. He warned that the party risks losing support if it fails to provide opportunities for young leaders.
