Opposition MDP President Abdulla Shahid is gearing up to run in the party's presidential primary for the 2028 election, according to trustworthy sources.

Shahid has yet to make a public statement, and the MDP has not provided any official confirmation so far.

Shahid commented on the possibility of a 2028 bid in an interview on Raajje TV around a year and a half ago, stating that it was premature to make a decision and that his main focus was on holding the government accountable. He stated that changing focus too early to the 2028 election would divert attention from what he termed the “harm” inflicted on the Maldives by the present government.

“I believe my primary emphasis as the party president is to ensure this government is held responsible,” Shahid stated.

Ex-MDP Chairman Fayyaz Ismail has declared his plan to run in the MDP presidential primary. Ex-Vice President Faisal Naseem has shown interest, but he hasn't confirmed if he will enter the race.

Conversely, PNF chief and ex-President Abdulla Yameen has announced his intention to run in the 2028 presidential election.

The ruling PNC has consistently asserted that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu intends to pursue the presidential nomination. Nevertheless, the President personally has not issued an official statement regarding the issue.