President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said the opposing Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) not contesting in the upcoming presidential election would be detrimental to the entire nation.
Addressing a campaign event in Dhaalu Meedhoo, President Solih expressed his concern over the prevailing political landscape as the presidential election draws near. Emphasizing the importance of a competitive political environment, President Solih underscored the necessity for all parties to actively contribute to the process.
Highlighting the absence of a finalized presidential candidate from one of the Maldives'largest political parties, President Solih noted that the PPM remains undecided regarding its presidential candidate even in the eleventh hour. He described this indecision as not only a setback for the party's members but also a loss for the entire nation.
The president said the PPM is today attempting to boycott the presidential election, and criticized the party's behavior, stating that the PPM displays characteristics of a political movement that revolves around protecting the interests of certain people and fixates on a single individual.
Reflecting on past experiences, President Solih acknowledged that similar challenges were faced by MDP until 2018 but that they were able to overcome the obstacles through the collective efforts of senior leaders at the time.
President Solih is seeking re-election under the banner of the main-ruling Maldivian Democratic Party. The President’s candidacy for the upcoming presidential election was accepted by the Elections Commission yesterday.
