Meekail: MDP Chairperson Election Outcome May Entrust Leadership to a Small Group, Leaving Others Behind
Member of Parliament Meekail Naseem stated that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will only regain public trust by operating as a robust institution rather than revolving around a specific individual.
Meekail Ahmed Naseem, the Member of Parliament for the South Galolhu constituency, who is contesting for the position of Chairperson of the MDP. | MDP
Meekail Ahmed Naseem, the Member of Parliament for South Galolhu and a candidate for the chairpersonship of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has warned that the outcome of the upcoming internal election could consolidate power within a small faction. He cautioned that if general members make the wrong choice, the party's leadership could fall into the hands of a select few, potentially forcing all other members to take a backseat.
Meekail's remarks come at a time when his opponents have suggested that certain individuals would be sidelined following the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) internal elections. Meekail is contesting the position of MDP Chairperson against former President Mohamed Nasheed. According to Meekail, the "Ithubaaru" (Trust) faction is challenging the former president to secure the opportunity to ensure the party is managed effectively.
Speaking at a rally held in Thinadhoo City, Meekail stated that the current priority must be to transform the MDP into an institution governed by robust principles. He emphasized that public trust can only be regained if the party functions as a strong institution rather than revolving around a single individual. He noted that when he decided to run for the position of party chairperson last November, it was not a decision made to challenge any specific "mentor" or particular individual. Meekail issued this warning.
In his remarks, Meekail highlighted the MDP's strength as a political force, asserting that the party is set to secure victory in the 2028 elections. He emphasized that to achieve this goal, the party must strengthen its internal administration and increase the engagement of its general membership.
Responding to claims that the MDP has been a "dead" party in recent times, Meekail questioned why those who previously left are now returning if the party had indeed withered away over the past few years as some suggest.
"Did I have to return because the party was insignificant or dead? No. The success in the recent council elections was the result of the hard work put in by the general members who remained loyal to the party," Meekail said.
He further stated that the efforts being undertaken by MDP members in Thinadhoo are vital for the future of the party.
