Fresh tensions have erupted within the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) after former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih publicly stated that former President Mohamed Nasheed should not contest the party’s upcoming chairperson election.
The remarks, delivered during a campaign rally in Lh. Hinnavaru last night, triggered immediate backlash from Nasheed allies and supporters, reigniting internal divisions within the opposition party.
The latest friction comes just days after both camps attempted to project an image of reconciliation and political unity. In recent days, supporters widely circulated photos and videos showing Solih and Nasheed sharing a meal from the same plate, a symbolic gesture intended to demonstrate improved relations between the two former leaders.
However, speaking at the rally in support of South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, Solih stressed that the current period was not the right time for Nasheed to seek the MDP chairperson position.
Instead, Solih said Nasheed should remain engaged in efforts to reform the country alongside the alliance formed by himself, Nasheed and former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.
The alliance agreement between the three former presidents was announced last Friday.
During his speech, Solih also appeared to direct a pointed jab at Nasheed’s political approach.
“If the mindset is ‘I am the greatest,’ and when you step out onto the streets, you only see your own outstretched hand, then nothing can be achieved,” Solih said, while insisting he was not attempting to speak negatively about Nasheed.
He added that electing Meekail as MDP chairperson was essential for the future of the party and emphasized the need to bring younger leadership into the MDP.
These remarks from Solih sparked criticism from several figures aligned with Nasheed.
Former Central Henveiru MP Ali Azim questioned why Solih himself had not openly declared that he would avoid contesting the next presidential election in order to make way for younger leaders.
Former MP Imthiyaz Fahmy also criticized Solih in a social media post, suggesting that certain factions were attempting to install a controllable figure as party chairperson.
The exchange highlights continuing tensions within the MDP despite recent efforts to publicly display unity among senior opposition leaders.
The MDP has remained politically divided since Nasheed’s departure from the party and the formation of The Democrats ahead of the 2023 presidential election.
