Three former presidents join forces; MDP pledges full cooperation

The MDP National Assembly on Tuesday endorsed the decision by three former presidents, Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, Mohamed Nasheed and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, to work together in response to what they describe as escalating violations of fundamental rights and democratic norms by the current administration.

The three leaders met last week and issued a joint statement on May 15, saying the government is “violating the basic rights of the people and influencing the judiciary and Parliament.” They said their cooperation aims to “put the country back on track” as the independence of state institutions is being eroded and democratic rules are being dismantled.

Former MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail submitted a resolution calling for full cooperation with the agreement reached by the three presidents.

“The MDP accepts the joint statement issued by former Presidents Mohamed Nasheed, Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on May 15, 2026, and cooperates in the implementation of the statement. The party’s national assembly pledges to provide assistance,” the resolution stated.

The motion was seconded by MDP National Assembly member and former Hoarafushi MP Ahmed Saleem (Salle) and was passed unanimously by all members present.

Speaking after the meeting of the three presidents last Friday night, Yameen said the government is creating “serious obstacles to freedom of the press.” He noted that two journalists have already been jailed under the court‑issued gag order, while two more are currently on trial.

Yameen said that as individuals who have been active in politics for two decades, the three leaders have a responsibility to safeguard the country’s interests.

He also stressed that the MDP remains the only party consistently taking to the streets to defend public rights, saying the right to freedom of expression is being openly violated.