The main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s most recent Chairperson, MP Hassan Latheef has backed MP Imthiyaz Fahmy as his successor.
MDP will be holding its Chairperson election this April. Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail and MP Imthiyaz Fahmy have announced they will contest the position.
On Wednesday, Hassan, who is Fayyaz's brother-in-law, said he would be backing Imthiyaz for Chairpersonship. Hassan said Imthiyaz is familiar with all aspects of MDP, and said he was a true example of a trusted advocate who works to ensure the party received its worth.
Earlier on Wednesday, Imthiyaz stepped down from his post as MDP's Spokesperson and officially submitted candidacy papers to contest for Chairperson. Fayyaz has not yet submitted his forms.
Imthiyaz has appointed Deputy Speaker Eva Abdulla's husband, Ahmed 'Saabe' Shahid as his campaign manager. Speaker of the Parliament and former President of the Maldives Mohamed Nasheed's parents and other family members have signed the forms supporting Imthiyaz's candidacy. It has been reported that Imthiyaz is running for Chairpersonship at the request of Nasheed. Fayyaz is believed to be backed by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
