Solih to contest MDP presidential primary

Aug 13, 2026, 2:29 PM
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih --- Photo: MDP

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih --- Photo: MDP

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has decided to contest the presidential primary of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to determine the party's candidate for the upcoming presidential election.

Adhadhu has confirmed that Solih shared his decision to run in the primary with several individuals during meetings held yesterday and today.

"He has officially decided to contest and is currently presenting that proposal to various stakeholders," a source who spoke on condition of anonymity said.

Solih has communicated his decision to contest the primary to other figures who have expressed interest in the race. It is understood that this includes the party’s President, Abdulla Shahid.

Former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail has also announced his intention to contest the MDP presidential primary. Former President Mohamed Nasheed, the party's Chairperson, is endorsing Fayyaz.

Solih served as the President of the Maldives from November 2018 to November 2023. He also contested the most recent presidential election held in 2023.

Solih is the second President from the MDP. The MDP also won the first multi-party democratic election held in the Maldives, which was secured by Nasheed in 2008.

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