Former President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has officially embraced a new political affiliation by joining the Jumhooree Party (JP). The transformative step was taken amidst a spirited campaign rally held in Maamigili, where Former Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture, Dr. Shainee Mohamed, also made a momentous transition to the JP. The membership applications of both individuals were formally presented to the esteemed JP Leader, Qasim Ibrahim.
The momentous decision to join JP follows Former President Waheed’s recent departure from the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), where he had served as a devoted member for an extensive period of ten years. His pivotal move away from the opposition ranks was precipitated by his expressed intention to compete in the forthcoming presidential election under the PPM banner. However, the PPM coalition ultimately designated the mayoral incumbent of Male’ City, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, as the torchbearer.
Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik’s political journey spans across pivotal milestones, with his multi-party presidential victory as a coalition candidate alongside the dominant ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in 2008. Serving as Vice President, he left an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape. In 2013, his participation in the presidential election was marked by a valiant effort that fell short of advancing to the decisive second round.
This seasoned statesman, recognizing the evolving dynamics of Maldivian politics, dissolved his own party and aligned with the PPM as part of a strategic move.