Jumhoree Party (JP)’s former deputy leader Abdulla Kamaludeen has decided to leave the party and support former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

Speaking to RaajjeMV, Kamaludeen said that his decision is not due to any ill feelings regarding JP.

“I have decided to support and move forward with the reform work begun by President Maumoon. I feel that I can only do this as an independent.”

Kamaludeen had worked closely with Maumoon during his 30-year rule, which includes holding the position of minister at different ministries in a 15-year period. The last position he held in Maumoon’s cabinet was that of home minister.

After staying on in Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party with Maumoon, he joined now-ruling Progressive Party of Maldives after its formation. He then joined JP in late 2012.

RaajjeMV understands that Abdulla Kamaludeen is the top representative of Maumoon in the opposition coalition parties’ trips to the islands to gain support for their candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, and running mate Faisal Naseem.