A founding member who played a significant role in the formation of the political party, Maldivian Democratic Party – MDP Mohamed Latheef – “Gogo” passed away on Sunday.
It was reported that Latheef passed away following long-term illness at Sri Lanka.
After President Mohamed Nasheed’s regime ended in 2012, Latheef resided mostly in Sri Lanka.
Latheef participated in establishment of MDP from Sri Lanka at the time when Maldives did not permit political parties to operate and registered and worked to strengthen MDP once Maldivian government formally recognized political parties in 2005.
Latheef was an active participant in drawing international attention to the death of Evan Naseem and the shooting at prison the following day. The incident was a significant blow to conclude President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s regime.
Latheef was a noticeable figure in introducing democracy to Maldives.
President Nasheed described passing of Latheef as a damage that cannot be fixed. And said that Latheef was the most kind-hearted, honest, trustworthy, smartest and strongest person he had come across in his life. A colleague who counseled on many political matters, said President Nasheed.
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih conveyed his condolences and said that he was extremely saddened to hear the news of the passing of Latheef, who played a key role in introducing democracy to Maldives.