Former Chairperson of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and former Tourism Minister Ali Waheed has re-joined the party. Ali announced his rejoining in a post on social media platform X.
Ali described the move as "returning home" after seven years and seven days. He pledged his commitment to serving the MDP, the entire nation, and the people of the Maldives with courage and diligence.
Ali Waheed's political journey began with the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) during the presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. Initially representing the Thoddoo constituency as an MP under the DRP banner, he later switched allegiance to the MDP during President Mohamed Nasheed's administration. He also served as the MDP's Chairperson.
During President Abdulla Yameen's tenure, Ali Waheed joined the Jumhooree Party (JP) and assumed the role of the party's President. He was subsequently appointed as the Tourism Minister in President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government on a JP slot. However, his tenure was marred by allegations of sexual assault and harassment, leading to his dismissal from the post in July 2020. Following the controversy, Ali Waheed went into self-exile in the UK until July of the current year. Upon his return, he took on the role of Campaign Manager for JP leader and presidential candidate Qasim Ibrahim. However, after Qasim's defeat in the first round of the presidential election, Ali Waheed parted ways with the JP in September.
