MDP 'yet to make a decision' on working with Adhaalath in parliamentary election

Main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has said that it is yet to decide on giving up seats for coalition partner, Adhaalath Party.

Both parties met earlier this week, and Adhaalath had proposed to work together in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Adhaalath is to have requested MDP to give up five constituencies; Nilandhoo, Vaikaradhoo, Mahibadhoo, South-Fuvahmulah and Makunudhoo constituencies.

While MDP's leadership has revealed that it is willing to work with the coalition partner, its leader former President Mohamed Nasheed met with the candidates of these constituencies on Tuesday night.

However, they refused to relinquish their tickets which mostly were won through a primary election held in January.

While MDP is to contest for 86 out of the 87 constituencies, its candidates submitted their nomination papers to the Elections Commission (EC) on Wednesday morning. It is not contesting in Nilandhoo constituency as there were no applicants.

Speaking afterwards, deputy secretary general and ‘Agenda 19’ spokesperson, Afshan Latheef said that it has not decided against working with Adhaalath in April's elections.

Noting that the matter has been discussed at the party's national congress, she said that they have not yet reached a decision on the matter.

Afshan noted that MDP's aim is to secure majority in the parliamentary election, and that joining forces with those willing to work with them will help enable this.

MDP’s decision to contest in all constituencies in the parliamentary election has led to a rift in the coalition, with one of the partners accusing it of violating their agreements.

Jumhooree Party (JP) claims that coalition partners had agreed to distribute seats amongst them in the parliamentary election, which MDP has denied.

Adhaalath has previously announced that it will field candidates in 13 constituencies.