Former VP Faisal Naseem eyes MDP presidential ticket

Jul 11, 2026, 10:16 AM
December 24, 2022 - Former Vice President Faisal Naseem delivers remarks at a ceremony held to mark the third anniversary of RDC. --Photo: Mohamed Shabin/Adhadhu

December 24, 2022 - Former Vice President Faisal Naseem delivers remarks at a ceremony held to mark the third anniversary of RDC. --Photo: Mohamed Shabin/Adhadhu

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has expressed interest in contesting the presidential primary of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

Speaking on Adhadhu’s "Etherefuh" program, Faisal said that during his tenure as Vice President, he held aspirations and a vision for the country's development. He noted that he had been working towards achieving those goals since that time.

"I have my own hopes for this nation. Therefore, even if I were to deny having this interest today, no one would believe it. That interest is there, that hope remains, and the work is being carried out in that direction," Faisal said.

However, Faisal emphasized that it is crucial to determine how the MDP, as an opposition party, can fulfill the promises it makes to the people, noting that this remains a top priority for him.

"Our goal is to find any path that allows us to win 2028 together. Whatever strategy ensures an MDP victory in '28 is something we must pursue," Faisal added.

He further noted that if the entire MDP remains united, alongside former President Mohamed Nasheed and former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the party stands a very strong chance of winning the upcoming presidential election.

Faisal concluded by stating that regardless of who the MDP fields as its candidate, securing victory in 2028 would be difficult unless the entire party stands united behind that individual.

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