Faisal and Azim meet Solih: ‘We have Solih’s full support’

Former Maldivian Vice President Faisal Naseem, who is contesting the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s primary for the 2028 presidential elections, and his running mate, Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim sat down for a meeting on Thursday with former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The meeting took place in the afternoon at the Salt Café in Male’.

Speaking to reporters gathered outside as they exited the café, Faisal said that he has been holding meetings on a regular basis in connection to the presidential primary.

He said that his meeting with Solih was part of this.

He also repeated his assertion that he has Solih’s support.

“We are moving forward with President Solih’s full support and cooperation. We are working on this basis,” he said.

The meeting was also attended by former Hulhumale’ MP Ali Niyaz, Solih’s brother.

However, Solih declined to answer questions from reporters, and left shortly after the meeting.

Faisal formally announced his decision to enter the MDP presidential race in a TV interview on October 8.

He also remarked that he would concede defeat if he lost the primary, and “back presidency for the MDP, more than a specific candidate.”

While Faisal states that he has the support of Solih, the former Maldivian leader, who himself was rumored to be eying a return to office, has not publicly endorsed Faisal or any other candidate.

Faisal was the fourth MDP official to announce candidacy for the party’s primary, following former party chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, former party president Abdulla Shahid, and South Hulhumale’ MP Dr. Ahmed Shamheed.