Mohamed Nasheed, the Speaker of Parliament, has voiced his belief that both himself and former President Abdulla Yameen should abstain from participating in the upcoming presidential election. Nasheed expressed this view during the inaugural meeting of The Democrats, where he also announced his intention to join the party.
During his address to the attendees, Nasheed stressed the importance of unity and prioritizing the nation’s interests over engaging in electoral rivalries. Notable figures from the main opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), representatives from various political parties, and officials from the Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) were present at the gathering. The meeting witnessed the approval of the party’s official name, logo, and regulations.
While the main opposition coalition has nominated former President Yameen as their candidate for the upcoming presidential election, uncertainty looms over his eligibility to participate. In December 2022, Yameen received an 11-year prison sentence from the Criminal Court on charges related to money laundering and accepting bribes in connection with the lease of Aarah, Vaavu Atoll, for resort development through the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC). Unless the Higher Court of the Maldives overturns the verdict handed down by the Criminal Court, Yameen will be unable to contest the election.
