PPM strategizes to constrict MDP's chances of attaining parliament majority

Former President of Maldives, Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom has explained the reasoning behind his party, Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM)'s decision to withdraw from contesting for certain seats in the parliamentary election in order to endorse Jumhooree Party (JP) candidates.

While tickets awarded to senior members such as Jameel Usman and Abdulla Maseeh have been withdrawn, it has prompted some displeasure among party members, including Maumoon Abdul Samad and Secretary general of the Party Abdul Matheen who have now decided to return their tickets inorder to contest the election as independent candidates,

While Addressing the residents of Maavashu island via telephone on Saturday night at Mohamed Saeed's campaign kick off event, Yameen acknowledged the displeasure that some members may be feeling, but stressed on the importance of ensuring that main-ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) does not attain parliament majority. He defended his decision and explained that his strategy of withdrawing from some constituencies to endorse JP candidates is a bid to constrict MDP's chances of securing majority seats.

While PPM has given u some seats to endorse JP, JP returned the favour by giving up some of their own targeted seats to endorse PPM instead.