Fayyaz to contest in MDP’s 2028 presidential primary

Main opposition MDP’s Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has announced his decision to contest in the party’s presidential primary for 2028’s presidential election.

He announced his decision via a message sent to MDP’s National Council WhatsApp group at 15:53pm on Saturday. His message read that he was going to in the party’s presidential primary and therewith, appealed for support.

Fayyaz’s announcement was confirmed to Sun by several National Council members.

This marks the first time an MDP member has announced their decision to contest in the next presidential elections.

Notably, former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih revealed that five members from the party have expressed interest in contesting in the 2028 presidential election on the party’s ticket while speaking at Raajje TV’s ‘Fashaairu’ program last Sunday.

When asked whether he will contest in 2028’s presidential elections, Solih did not provide a direct answer but said he has held discussions with the party’s leadership regarding the future of his political career. He added that all of his decisions will be known to the party’s leadership without doubt.

He further said five members from MDP’s leadership have expressed interest in contesting the next presidential election while appealing to them to proceed with the party despite their personal interest in contesting for presidency.

The former president did not disclose the names of individuals who have expressed interest in contesting the presidential elections.

He added that his decision would be disclosed in due time, citing if disclosed now, it poses more damage to the party than benefit.

While four years still remain for the next presidential election, former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyyom has also announced his decision to contest the election.