MDP to merge President and Chairperson roles in major party reform
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is set to introduce sweeping changes to its internal structure, including the merger of its President and Chairperson posts, according to party Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail.
Speaking during an appearance on Sangu TV, Fayyaz announced that significant amendments will be proposed to the MDP constitution at the party’s upcoming conference.
Among the key changes is the plan to consolidate the top two leadership positions, Party President and Chairperson into a single role.
There is no longer a need for both a party president and a chairperson. One position is sufficient, whether it remains as chairperson or becomes president, This change will streamline party operations and improve efficiency. It is a major step forward, though not everyone may find it easy to accept.
Fayyaz stated.
Fayyaz explained that another proposed amendment would bar the elected party leader from contesting in the next presidential election.
The rationale, he said, is to allow the party leader to focus entirely on internal affairs without the distraction of factionalism or presidential ambitions.
Leading the party should not be burdened with election politics,
He stated
He said the leader should remain neutral and focused solely on maintaining party unity and direction.
Fayyaz noted that while the party leader will not be eligible to run for president during their term, they could still contest in future elections based on their performance and leadership within the party.
He described this as an opportunity for potential candidates to demonstrate their capabilities and earn the trust of members.
Additional reforms being considered include restricting the party leader from holding any government position in the event the MDP forms the government.
This would include cabinet posts, parliamentary seats, roles in independent institutions, or senior positions in state-owned enterprises.
You can’t be in the cabinet, parliament, or an MD of an SOE. The party leader must remain completely detached from government responsibilities
Fayyaz clarified.
He said the motivation behind these reforms stems from past experiences, where the party's strength diminished during MDP-led governments due to senior members being absorbed into government roles.
He stated that even when the government performs, the party weakens and that these changes are aimed at ensuring the party remains strong and independent, regardless of who is in power.
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