Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Former Chairperson of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Moosa Manik has stated that he will be competing at the 2018 Presidential Primaries.
Deputy Speaker Moosa made the statement in a short speech made at the MDP meeting held on Saturday night. The meeting which operated under the title “We will not back off regardless of threats” was held at the Carnival Stadium.
Mr. Moosa stated that MDP should move forward wisely and work towards the progress of a young leadership, calling all parties to come out.
“I am sincerely asking for all parties to come out and address all issues faced within our party, if there are any,” Mr. Moosa said.
Furthermore, Mr. Moosa addressed on his resignation of his position as the Chairperson of MDP stating that it had created much speculation. Mr. Moosa noted that in a democracy, defeat should be accepted. He stated that as a high official of the party, he had spoken regarding the issues which he felt needed to be addressed on. He also expressed his belief that the party should be handed over to a young leadership.
“Following the recent Presidential elections and Parliament elections, a National Parliament meeting was held. I resigned from my position in a short notice. Our party abides by the regulations of a democracy and therefore wecan accept defeat when defeated,” stated Mr. Moosa.
Additionally, Mr. Moosa addressed on hearsay stating his absence at public occasions of the party had raised many questions. Mr. Moosa noted that he had not given up on the party and stated that he is still active within the party.
This is the first time Mr. Moosa has spoken at an MDP meeting since the 18th term of Parliament came into place.