Former President Mohamed Nasheed, who is contesting for the position of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson, has announced that he will not run in the upcoming presidential election.
Speaking at a meeting in Shaviyani Feydhoo during his campaign, Nasheed noted that he has already served as President of the Maldives, Speaker of Parliament, and Secretary General of an international organization.
Nasheed expressed his desire to step back and play a supporting role, allowing the younger generation—such as former MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, who has expressed interest in the presidency—to take the lead.
"Let me say, the presidency is a very demanding job. By the time a presidential campaign concludes, it takes a toll on a person. I have accomplished a great deal already; I have served as President, Speaker of Parliament, and Secretary General of an international body," Nasheed said.
"What I have in mind now is to support our younger generation. For instance, Fayyaz and his peers are about seven or eight years younger than us. I intend to stand behind them and provide guidance."
Following his announcement to run for MDP Chairperson, Nasheed declared his support for Fayyaz in the MDP presidential primary on April 19.
Despite this, Nasheed’s supporters continue to urge him to contest the presidential election.
Furthermore, Nasheed and Fayyaz have proposed a major constitutional overhaul titled "The Big Change," advocating for a shift in the Maldives' governance structure. The proposal suggests separating the roles of Head of State and Head of Government. Nasheed has indicated an interest in serving as Head of State should the proposal gain public approval.
In addition to Fayyaz, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and MDP President Abdulla Shahid are also expected to compete in the main opposition party's presidential primary, which is anticipated to take place next year.
In the first MDP primary held in 2008, three candidates competed: Nasheed, Dr. Mohamed Munavvar, and Moosa Manik.
Nasheed ran unopposed in the 2013 presidential primary. He was also the sole candidate in the 2018 primary, though the party congress eventually awarded the presidential ticket to Solih.
In the most recent primary in 2023, Solih and Nasheed faced off, with Solih emerging victorious.
Nasheed previously served as MDP Chairperson from 2005 to 2008 and held the position of Party President from 2014 until 2023.
