PPM will win the next presidential election: Gayoom

Interim President of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has said that PPM will win the presidential election of 2013.

Speaking at a function held at in Guraidhoo last night to celebrate PPM’s victory in the Th. Thimarafushi by-election and also the official representation of PPM at the Parliament, Gayoom referred to Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s call for an early election, and said that the next election will be held in 2013, and that PPM will win that election.

“We are hearing repeated calls for an early election. I want to say, that has been held. The early election has been held. The result of the early election is right in front of you. People’s support is for PPM, for the coalition,” Gayoom said.

Gayoom said that no election will be held before 2013 against the constitution. He noted that several foreign groups have brought up the issue of an early election, but no foreign group should be allowed to interfere with the country’s internal affairs.

“Several foreign groups have talked about an early election, however their intentions are different. We must protect our sovereignty, our independence. Interference with our internal affairs should not be tolerated,” Gayoom said.

Gayoom expressed his gratitude to the people of Thimarafushi, Gaadhiffushi, and Guraidhoo; and also noted the support of the coalition parties such as Adhaalath Party and Jumhooree Party in the campaign for Thimarafushi seat.

Gayoom received a warm welcome from the people of Guraidhoo when he arrived to join the celebrations following PPM’s victory.