Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed has expressed a newfound realization that a youthful spirit is required for effective governance in a country.
Speaking at a rally held at the Democrats' Party Center on Sunday night, Nasheed highlighted some of his achievements during his presidency in 2008 and emphasized that vision of this kind cannot be expected from individuals above the age of 50. While not explicitly mentioning President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's name, Nasheed indirectly conveyed his belief that the current president is now too old to lead the nation.
“Both you [President Solih] and I can go to the office every day and delegate tasks to the secretary and whoever else to do whatever it takes," Nasheed said.
President Solih is campaigning for a second term in office and making numerous significant pledges. Critiquing President Solih's campaign promises, Nasheed emphasized the necessity of realistic pledges that can be fulfilled. He argued that the upcoming presidential election would not be won solely on promises or past achievements but by presenting practical and attainable plans for the country's progress.
"Let me tell you, the presidential election will not be won by promises alone, nor by what you have already done, but by what you have the means to achieve, by what is attainable," said Nasheed.
Regarding comments that President Solih managed the COVID-19 situation well, Nasheed said even if President Solih's supporters repeatedly speak of the president's achievements, there is no way that President Solih would receive the people's vote.
Expressing confidence in Hulhudhoo MP Ilyas Labeeb, the Democrats' expected presidential candidate for the September election, Nasheed said Ilyas' deep understanding of the necessary changes for the country is unmatched by other politicians. He said the party's commitment to combat corruption and eagerness to collaborate closely with the people would earn Ilyas the people's vote.
While advocating for a youthful spirit in leadership, it is worth noting that Nasheed himself, being over the age of 50, had recently sought the main-ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s presidential ticket before joining the Democrats. However, he lost the primary to President Solih.
