Ruling party leader and former president, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, will not endorse President Abdulla Yameen in the 2018 presidential race, says Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) leader Mohamed Nasheed (Kaanal).
Speaking on VTV’s talk show ‘Fasmanzaru’ Nasheed said Gayoom and Yameen are ideologically very different individuals and therefore have to resolve differences through dialogue. He however said the present day scenario is proof that they are unable to do so.
Nasheed speculated that ongoing internal conflicts within ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) cannot be resolved easily and hence President Yameen should seek alternative political paths.
He said there is absolutely no doubt that Gayoom will not back President Yameen in the next presidential race. He said that given the little time remaining, President Yameen should seek an alternative, such as formation of a new political party or join another one, indicating that DRP was the best option.
“President Yameen does not have a chance in MDP, JP or Adhaalath Party. This leaves him with MDA, which is under Siyam’s leadership. No one else (besides Siyam) will get that opportunity (in MDA).”
Nasheed further said that signs of a leadership going to DRP are being seen and that when time comes it will become evident.
Speaking about PPM’s decision to hold a presidential primary, Nasheed said when President Yameen is completing one term, there is absolutely no reason for him to contest a primary for the party ticket.
As internal conflicts within PPM continue, the party is divided between Gayoom’s supporters and President Yameen’s supporters. Since past few weeks, the two sides have been openly engaged in heated debates.