MDP will move forward as a united force: Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will continue to move forward as a unified force, as the country’s largest opposition party marks its 20th anniversary today.

In a message posted to mark the occasion, Solih said the MDP remains proud of its legacy in introducing democracy to the Maldives “with courage, reform and civilized ideals”. He credited the party with empowering citizens across human rights, political freedoms and governance.

“The journey we began 20 years ago to bring prosperity and development to the people is not over,” he said.

“At a time when the country risks slipping back under the yoke of dictatorship, it is vital that the party remains united and grows stronger.”

Solih, who lost the last presidential election, has announced his intention to run in the MDP primary for the party’s 2028 presidential ticket. MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has also he would contest the primaries, but said the contest would not damage party unity, unlike past internal divisions.

Former President Mohamed Nasheed, the MDP’s founding leader and first president elected on the party’s ticket, formally rejoined the party on Monday after a two-year absence. He has also expressed interest in contesting the presidential primary.

Nasheed left the MDP during the last presidential cycle due to political rifts with Solih. While Nasheed did not contest the 2023 election, Ilyas Labeeb running under Nasheed’s breakaway faction, The Democrats came third in the first round. Many within the party believe that the split in MDP vote contributed to Solih’s defeat.

Solih has previously stated his desire to reconcile internal differences and has invited Nasheed to work together once again.