Democrats to be dissolved; all members, including Nasheed to rejoin MDP
The Democrats have formally decided to dissolve the party and rejoin the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
The resolution was passed during the party’s National Assembly held yesterday.
The motion to dissolve the party and merge with MDP was introduced by the leader of the Democrats’ Women’s Branch, Fathimath Hamdha.
In the resolution, Hamdha emphasized the importance of forming a united and robust opposition party to restore public confidence in the political system.
She said this was essential to prevent the current government from securing victory in the upcoming local council elections and to uphold democratic accountability.
The resolution, passed by the majority present, read:
To successfully contest the upcoming local council elections, to work toward a brighter future for the nation, and to ensure the government remains accountable, while we believe that the current fragmented multi-party system is eroding public trust, a single strong opposition is necessary. Achieving this goal requires a united front, and thus, we, the members of The Democrats, resolve to rejoin the MDP
Democrats
Decision Expected to Stir Internal Debate
While the resolution was passed at the National Assembly, no decision was made during the meeting regarding the formal dissolution procedures.
The move is expected to spark debate among Democratic members, some of whom may oppose the merger.
Party Formed to Break Away from MDP
The Democrats were originally formed following a fallout between former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Speaker Mohamed Nasheed, which intensified divisions within the MDP.
Nasheed and his loyalists split from the party at a crucial juncture and established The Democrats.
At the time, Nasheed declared at a rally on Artificial Beach that his aim was to "dismantle" the MDP.
However, the party did not attract as much support as anticipated, and it failed to weaken the MDP's influence significantly.
The MDP, while impacted by the loss of Nasheed and his faction, transitioned from the ruling party to the opposition after the November 2023 presidential elections.
Race for MDP’s 2028 Presidential Ticket Heats Up
The Democrats’ decision to rejoin the MDP comes as internal competition intensifies over the party's presidential ticket for the 2028 elections.
MDP Chairman Fayyaz Ismail has publicly announced his interest in running.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has also expressed interest, with his loyalists already mobilizing support.
Additionally, former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, who currently serves as the MDP’s president, is rumored to be eyeing the ticket.
Meanwhile, President Nasheed has reportedly reached out to several senior MDP and Democratic leaders, expressing his intent to contest in the upcoming presidential race and seeking their opinions on his potential candidacy.
Advertisement
