Former VP Faisal to Contest MDP Presidential Primary; Mayor Azim as Running Mate

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has announced his candidacy for the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) upcoming presidential primary.

Speaking on RaajjeTV’s morning show “Fashaairu”, Faisal stated that his decision came following consultations with senior leadership and general members of the party. He highlighted that receiving significant support and encouragement from former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih played a crucial role in his decision to contest.

Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim will join Faisal’s ticket as his running mate. Explaining his decision to run alongside Faisal, Azim noted that ordinary MDP members strongly favor having genuine, rooted party members hold both the presidency and vice presidency in a future MDP administration. He confirmed that he accepted Faisal’s invitation and stands ready to take on the responsibilities of the vice presidency.

Addressing the outcome of the upcoming primary, Faisal affirmed that even if he does not secure the party’s ticket, he will remain steadfast alongside the winning candidate. He gave full assurance that he will actively campaign on the frontlines to help MDP reclaim the presidency in the 2028 presidential election.

With Faisal’s entry, four candidates have officially signaled their intention to contest the MDP presidential primary to date: MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Parliament Member Ahmed Shamheed, and former Vice President Faisal Naseem.