Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom admits he deliberated on running for Maavashu constituency in the upcoming parliamentary election.
However, former Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed will now be contesting for Maavashu constituency on behalf of the Progressive Coalition, an alliance between PPM and Peoples' National Congress.
Addressing the residents of Maavah island via telephone on Saturday night at Mohamed Saeed's campaign kick off event, President Yameen said he is confident of the loyalty and support for PPM by the people of Maavah. He had previously considered running for the Maavashu constituency, but later changed his mind in order to give the opportunity to his trusted aide and friend, Mohamed Saeed.
The President still hasn't clarified if he has made a final decision on running in the parliamentary elections slated for April. The deadline for submission of candidacy papers is 21st February.
Yameen also shed light on PPM's decision to withdraw from contesting for some constituencies in favour of Jumhooree Party (JP) candidates, and acknowledged the fact that it may cause some degree of sorrow among PPM supporters. He stressed on the importance of narrowing main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s chances of attaining parliament majority, and defended his decision to endorse some JP candidates.
The police are currently investigating probable criminal office against President Yameen Abdul Gayyoom, who has now been officially charged with money-laundering by the Prosecutor General.
Former President Yameen Abdul Gayyoom - Photo: Ahmed Shurau
