Jumhooree Party (JP)'s deputy leader Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan has said that they will not delay the election of an opposition running mate.

The Joint Opposition had agreed to put forth a common candidate and running mate for this year's presidential election; a candidate from Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and running mate from JP.

MDP on Saturday evening elected its parliamentary group leader, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih as its presidential candidate. 

Hence, the JP deputy leader said that the party will work to announce a running mate "as soon as possible".

"There are people interested in the position. Have to give them some time [to campaign]", said Dr. Hassan, who also noted that a running mate will be determined by the party's council as per its internal regulations.

However, he emphasized that the process "will not be delayed" as they have yet to campaign for the presidential election, slated for September 23.

Those showing interest for the post of running mate include; Kendhoo constituency MP Ali Hussain, Kaashidhoo constituency MP Faisal Naseem, former minister and JP's deputy leader Abdulla Mausoom and former state ministers Abdulla Ameen and Mohamed Fayaz. In addition, the party's recently elected President Ali Waheed has shown support for Aishath Nahula, wife of JP leader Qasim Ibrahim.