MDP stronger with The Democrats’ members return; let’s move forward together: Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will be stronger with the return of members from The Democrats, urging all sides to move forward together without dwelling on the past.

He made these remarks while speaking on RaajjeTV's "Fala Surukhee" programme about the return of The Democrats members, including former President Mohamed Nasheed, to MDP.

Members who joined The Democrats had broken away from MDP amid internal divisions. During the recent presidential election, they actively campaigned against President Solih.

Solih said this is not the time to dwell on the past, quoting renowned scientist Albert Einstein, the former president noted that weak people seek revenge, while the strong forgive.

Solih expressed strong satisfaction over former MDP members who had joined The Democrats now returning to the party, saying their return has strengthened MDP. He also noted that both parties share closely aligned ideologies.

Highlighting that some individuals had previously suggested the idea of forming a coalition with The Democrats and moving forward together, Solih said that he didn't find that acceptable even then.

However, Solih said that even then, he had pointed out that it would be better for both the party and the country if The Democrats members returned to the party. He stated that good work needs to be done to strengthen MDP and move forward in the future.

MDP has welcomed the rejoining of former Nasheed and some other members of The Democrats. A ceremony was held on June 23 to welcome Nasheed and The Democrats members who rejoined MDP.

The Democrats members passed a resolution to join MDP on June 17.