JP: MDP expressed interest in forming a coalition for parliamentary election

Jumhoory Party (JP), on Monday night, revealed that the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has expressed interest in forming a coalition for the parliamentary election slated for next year.

JP’s Secretary General Ahmed Azleen told Sun that the party had sent letters to both main ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) and main opposition MDP regarding contesting the upcoming parliamentary election.

JP held a meeting with PNC on Saturday, after the party responded to the letter.

Azleen said MDP responded to the letter today.

“In their response to our letter, they had expressed interest (in forming a coalition), however, they added they would give a formal response later. They said they will be giving a response after discussions,” he detailed.

“This means they also do have interest in working together,” he added.

Azleen, noting a formal date for discussions with MDP has not yet been set, said MDP assured to give a response as soon as possible.

“Can only comment on a coalition understanding after discussions between the two parties,” he stressed.

Sun was unsuccessful in its efforts to obtain a comment from MDP regarding the matter.

Although JP, which had been a coalition partner of MDP’s administration during 2019’s parliamentary election, discussed forming a coalition for the parliamentary election that year; both parties failed to reach an agreement.

JP’s leader Qasim Ibrahim unsuccessfully contested in the first round of September’s presidential election. MDP’s Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who was vying for a second term in office sought support from Qasim and JP for the runoff during extensive discussions. However, JP, ultimately decided against backing any candidate.

Solih was elected MDP’s interim leader last week.