Resolution to dissolve The Democrats, Nasheed and members decide to rejoin MDP

The Democrats have passed a resolution to dissolve the party, with former President Mohamed Nasheed and most members deciding to rejoin the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

The resolution was adopted at an informal meeting of The Democrats National Assembly today. It stated that strengthening the opposition is the best path to winning next year’s local council elections, restoring public trust in the multi-party political system, and ensuring a more accountable government. Therefore, many members believe it is necessary to unify efforts and join the opposition MDP, the resolution said.

Of the 46 members who attended the meeting, only a few reportedly opposed the move to merge with MDP.

The Democrats were formed after a rift emerged between then-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and MDP president Mohamed Nasheed during the last presidential election. Nasheed later broke away to establish The Democrats, who contested the 2023 presidential race with Ilyas Labeeb as their candidate.

The decision to dissolve the party comes a day after Nasheed met MDP chairperson Fayyaz Ismail. Following their meeting, Fayyaz said they held extensive discussions about recent political shifts and the steps needed to address them.

“The country can only be put back on track if all those working for reform come together,” he said.

Nasheed has indicated that he may run in the upcoming presidential election.