Nasheed: Ready to assume interim chairpersonship if approved by National Council

  • Maldives
  • Politics
PUBLISHED 03 May 2026

Former President Mohamed Nasheed, who was once the leader of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has indicated his readiness to take on the position of interim Chairperson, as long as he receives support from the party's National Council.


MDP initially planned to hold the chairperson election on June 11th.


Earlier tonight, interim Chairperson Abdul Ghafoor Moosa (Gapo) suggested postponing the election, citing the lack of government funds and worries that internal conflicts might hinder the ability to hold the government accountable effectively.


After this development, ex-Makunudhoo MP Mohamed Raai proposed in the MDP National Council’s WhatsApp group that, should the party’s senior leaders and the National Council concur, someone ought to be designated as interim chairperson to guide the party until the presidential primary occurs.


In reply, Nasheed indicated his willingness to take on the position.


Nasheed expressed, "I have no objection to taking on the role of interim chairperson if the National Council gives its approval."


The competition for the permanent Chairperson role remains a contest between Nasheed and South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem. Despite having shown interest in the position before, Alhan Fahmy has now stepped back from the competition.


Internal splits within MDP have become more noticeable as Mohamed Nasheed’s faction pushes its agenda under the slogan "Bodu Badhalu". Ex-MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has openly supported Nasheed. During a joint press conference, Nasheed and Fayyaz unveiled a set of suggested structural reforms for the country's governance system, which features a proposal to divide the roles of Head of State and Head of Government.



Simultaneously, Meekail Ahmed Naseem is executing a dynamic campaign with the slogan "Ithubaaru," having garnered significant support from the MDP Parliamentary Group members.