Solih: Elections being synchronized because Muizzu can only win in 2028 by combining them

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the government’s move to amend the Constitution to hold presidential and parliamentary elections simultaneously is driven by a belief that this is the only way President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu can secure victory in the 2028 presidential election.

He made these remarks while addressing the "Heyvalla Thayyaaru" rally organized by the MDP in Hulhumale'. President Solih stated that the government is preparing to hold a referendum alongside the upcoming local council elections to seek public opinion on merging two separate elections. He described this move as a dangerous attempt to seize the powers held by the people.

Former President Solih stated that the current administration has undermined the independence of the judiciary and stripped independent institutions of their powers, while also stifling the freedom of expression within the People’s Majlis. He noted that the only remaining power held by the citizens is the right to vote and the ability to hold the government accountable. However, he warned that the government is now attempting to eliminate even those powers through this referendum.

He has suddenly emerged and is attempting to merge the elections simply because he believes it is the only way to secure a win in 2028. There is no other reason behind this move. It is not about reducing costs or saving money. Furthermore, throughout the history of Maldivian democracy and even before it, elections have always been held separately. We began following a written constitution in 1932. We transitioned to a republic in 1953, and the parliament existed even before that. In every era since, these elections have consistently been conducted as distinct, individual events.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih

President Solih stated that there is no sincere intent behind this change. Consequently, he urged citizens to mark "No" on the ballot paper regarding the proposal to combine the two elections during the upcoming polls scheduled for April 4. He described that day as the occasion when the public would reject the current administration in their pursuit of establishing good governance.

Furthermore, President Solih urged citizens to head to the polls early on election day. He noted that while voting is scheduled to continue until 4:00 p.m., he has received information that the deadline will not be extended for any reason. However, he suggested that an extension might be granted if turnout for the government appears low; regardless of such possibilities, he called on supporters to cast their votes for the MDP’s "scales" symbol as early as possible.