Nasheed invites rivals to join forces to change the government

Former president Mohamed Nasheed has called on all his rivals to unite, declaring that efforts to bring about a change in the current administration must begin without delay.

Speaking at a victory held at Artificial Beach on Friday night following his landslide victory in the MDP chairperson election, Nasheed said neither he nor the MDP could turn away from the Maldives. He stressed that the party would continue to work for the country's security, safety, prosperity, and independence, adding that he was prepared to "put himself in danger" in pursuit of those objectives.

Reaffirming that the MDP would not retreat from its political goals, Nasheed criticized the government, claiming many MDP supporters had been subjected to unfair treatment during the election period. He specifically alleged that employees of some state-owned enterprises had faced injustices.

"I call upon the government to rectify these matters by tomorrow. Otherwise, we will take to the streets. We will initiate direct action. The government must not treat anyone unjustly. We are watching, and we are ready to mobilize!" Nasheed warned.

He described tonight as the beginning of a broader movement, which he characterized as "saving the Maldives" in line with the aspirations of the MDP. He said the success of that effort would depend on the collective participation of party members and the wider public.

He also extended an invitation to his political rivals to join the initiative.

"I call upon all rivals to join us! Let us work together to hold the government accountable, and from tonight onwards, we must proceed with all necessary efforts to bring about a change in government," he said.

The election was widely viewed as a contest between the MDP’s two principal internal factions.

The election was prompted by the resignation of former chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, who also notably endorsed Nasheed in this contest. With Nasheed prevailing in the first major internal election since rejoining the MDP after leaving to form 'The Democrats,' the balance of power within the party has shifted once again. 

MDP considers the election a pivotal step in strengthening the party’s structure ahead of the upcoming presidential election.