Former President Abdulla Yameen has announced Dr. Mohamed Jameel as his running mate. The decision comes as the main opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) formally names Yameen as their candidate for the highly anticipated electoral contest.
However, Yameen’s eligibility to participate in the election is subject to his ongoing legal challenges. Currently serving an 11-year prison sentence on charges of corruption and money laundering, Yameen will only be able to run in the election if he emerges victorious in the appeal case pending before the High Court.
Dr. Mohamed Jameel, who is presently acting as Yameen’s senior legal representative in his court battles, has had a prominent political history. He previously served as Yameen’s running mate during the 2013 presidential election but faced removal from his position as Vice President in 2015 through a vote of no-confidence. Following his ousting, Dr. Jameel opted for self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom (UK), where he made serious allegations against Yameen. Additionally, during the 2018 presidential election, he actively participated in the opposition coalition.
After the inauguration of the new administration, Dr. Jameel made an unsuccessful bid to secure a seat in Parliament under the Jumhooree Party’s banner. Subsequently, he realigned with the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) to further his political engagement.
As the electoral landscape takes shape, all eyes remain on Yameen’s appeal case at the High Court, which will determine his eligibility to stand for the presidency. Meanwhile, the alliance between Yameen and Dr. Jameel adds a dynamic dimension to the electoral competition, fueling speculation and intrigue within the political circles of the Maldives.
