Ibrahim Waheed, the Administrative Deputy Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has been removed from his position with immediate effect, according to a letter issued by the party’s interim leadership.
The dismissal was confirmed in a letter signed by interim chairperson Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, which cited provisions within the party’s charter relating to the appointment of deputy chairpersons. The letter stated that while the charter requires National Council approval for appointing deputies, it does not explicitly mandate such approval for their removal.
Based on this interpretation, Waheed was dismissed from his role without a specific reason being outlined in the notice.
In response, Waheed publicly challenged the decision, arguing that his removal contravenes the party’s constitution. In a post on social media platform X, he claimed that elected officials are entitled to remain in their positions until the end of their term, referencing provisions within the MDP charter. He also criticised the party’s interim leadership over the move.
On the same day, Ahmed Mauroof was also removed from his role as the party’s Legal Director, with no official explanation provided in the dismissal letter. Both Waheed and Mauroof are considered close allies of party chairperson Fayyaz Ismail.
The developments come amid escalating tensions within the MDP following a recent controversy involving former President Mohamed Nasheed, who was denied the opportunity to speak at a party rally held to celebrate its performance in the local council elections. The incident sparked criticism from party supporters and intensified debate over internal decision-making.
Addressing the issue, Ghafoor said that misleading information had been circulated regarding the rally arrangements, adding that efforts had been ongoing at the time to facilitate Nasheed’s participation.
The latest dismissals are expected to further deepen divisions within the opposition party as it navigates a period of internal disagreement following the elections.
