In a significant development ahead of the upcoming presidential election, the Jumhooree Party (JP), Maldives National Party (MNP), and The Democrats have joined forces to field a unified candidate. The decision to present a single candidate was reached during a crucial meeting attended by key leaders, including Qasim Ibrahim, the Leader of Jumhooree Party (JP); Mohamed Nazim, President of Maldives National Party (MNP); and former President Mohamed Nasheed, representing The Democrats.
Following the meeting, JP Leader Qasim Ibrahim announced the historic decision, stating that the opposition coalition has come to an agreement to rally behind a single candidate for the highly anticipated presidential race. Moreover, Qasim expressed his intention to hold further discussions with the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and Maldives Reform Movement (MRM) to garner broader support for their unified candidate.
Notably, the opposition coalition has consistently maintained its support for former President Abdulla Yameen as their preferred candidate. PPM had officially nominated Yameen for the presidential ticket in August 2022. However, in December 2022, Yameen faced an 11-year prison sentence after being found guilty of money laundering and bribery charges linked to the lease of Aarah, Vaavu Atoll, for resort development through the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC). His eligibility to run in the election hinges on the outcome of his appeal case, with the final decision resting with the Supreme Court, according to the Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM).
Among the other notable candidates vying for the presidency, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who secured the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) primary election victory, has declared his intention to seek re-election. Additionally, JP Leader Qasim and MNP President Nazim have obtained their party tickets, while former Minister of Home Affairs Umar Naseer and former Attorney General (AG) Dr. Mohamed Munawar have also entered the race as aspiring contenders. Currently, President Solih and Nazim are actively campaigning, whereas Qasim’s campaign activities are yet to commence.
The decision by the opposition coalition to present a unified candidate promises to set the stage for a fiercely contested presidential election.
