MDP pressured me to hold parliamentary referendum and remove ministers: Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that during his tenure, he faced internal pressure from the MDP to hold a referendum on a parliamentary system and to dismiss certain cabinet ministers.

Solih made these remarks while addressing a public gathering organized by the "Ithubaaru" campaign team in Addu City. He stated that once a leader assumes office, they must ensure equality for all citizens and should refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of the party.

Solih noted that while the MDP government received full cooperation from the party at its inception in 2018, the dynamic shifted following the subsequent parliamentary elections. He stated that immediately after the elections, a proposal was made during a meeting he attended for the parliament to operate independently of the government, a move he claims placed the administration in an extremely difficult position.

During the meeting, Solih stated that he was compelled to lobby members for support on every issue or bill submitted by the government to Parliament. Noting that this was not a matter he previously wished to discuss in such detail, the former president remarked that certain MDP members within Parliament conducted themselves in a highly distasteful manner. He further asserted that these individuals worked more aggressively than the opposition to undermine the credibility of the MDP administration.

Solih further revealed that during the first year of his presidency, while under significant pressure, former President Mohamed Nasheed contacted him requesting a referendum to transition the Maldives' system of government to a parliamentary one. However, Solih stated that after informing Nasheed that such a change could not be facilitated during his term, he faced persistent challenges throughout his entire administration. Solih added that even following the COVID-19 pandemic, Nasheed continued to exert pressure regarding the failure to hold a parliamentary system referendum.

"Then came the COVID-19 situation. The former Finance Minister's claim that I rejected a proposal he submitted is not entirely accurate. Proposals were indeed made, but they were specifically to hold a vote on transitioning to a parliamentary system and to dismiss three ministers—one of whom was Ameer himself," Solih said.

Speaking regarding the upcoming internal elections of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Solih stated that the primary objective is for the entire party to work together, regardless of who contests the 2028 presidential election. He further noted that this goal could best be achieved under the chairmanship of Meekail Ahmed Naseem. The former president emphasized that the mission of the "Ithubaaru" (Trust) campaign team is to appoint an individual to the position who is capable of leading the party forward inclusively.

Solih stated that the general membership of the MDP is focused on securing victory in the 2028 elections. He described Meekail as a leader capable of working inclusively with everyone, without discriminating against opponents. Solih further noted that once the Chairperson is elected, the National Congress will resume its functions in accordance with the party’s constitution. He emphasized that this transition is a crucial step forward for the party's progress.