Shifaaq ditches MDP and signs for PPM

Shifaq “Histo” Mufeed, an outspoken and vocal young Parliamentarian from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is set to become a member of the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM), according to reports.

Some officials from the PPM confirmed the reports, but on condition of anonymity. According to them, Histo would sign for PPM tonight, in a PPM meeting to be held in Fuvammulah, Histo’s native island. He is in Parliament representing Midland Fuvammulah Constituency. Those who confirmed the reports included a PPM Council member.

Maumoon Abdul Qayyoom, former President of the Maldives, Founder and Interim President of PPM is also set to participate in the party meeting to be held tonight in Fuvammulah.

While reports of Histo ditching MDP in favor of PPM have sprung up, he was spotted at PPM Office last Thursday.

While Histo participated in two MDP meetings following 7th February, the day when MDP leader Mohamed Nasheed resigned from Presidency, Histo has criticized the Party policies several times. Even on the Majlis floor, Histo has spoken against party line, saying that an early presidential election could not be held without amending the Constitution.

In addition, Histo attended the Majlis on the day when cabinet approval for the current government was scheduled, against a three-line-whip issued by MDP, and voted for the Cabinet appointments. Due to this “rebellion”, MDP leadership promised “action against Histo”.