Former President Nasheed Backs Fayyaz, Declines Future Presidential Bid

Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed has announced that he will not contest the next presidential election, saying it is time to give younger leaders an opportunity to lead.

Nasheed made the remarks during a campaign visit to Sh. Feydhoo as part of his bid for the chairperson position of the Maldivian Democratic Party.

Speaking to residents, Nasheed said he had already served in several major leadership roles, including President of the Maldives, Speaker of Parliament, and Secretary-General of an international organization. He noted that running a presidential campaign is demanding and that he has already contributed significantly through his years of public service.

“The presidency is a very demanding responsibility. By the end of a presidential campaign, a person has invested a tremendous amount of effort. I have already had the opportunity to serve as President, Speaker of Parliament, and Secretary-General of an international organization,” Nasheed said.

He added that he now believes opportunities should be given to a younger generation of leaders. In particular, he expressed support for former MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, who has already declared his interest in seeking the party’s presidential nomination.

Nasheed said he wishes to support and work alongside younger politicians rather than pursue another presidential bid himself. He also recalled that he publicly endorsed Fayyaz’s candidacy on April 19.

“I want to spend my time supporting the next generation. People like Fayyaz are seven or eight years younger than us, and I want to stand beside them and help them move forward,” he said.

The MDP is expected to hold a presidential primary next year to select its candidate for the next presidential election. Alongside Fayyaz, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and current MDP President Abdulla Shahid are also expected to compete for the party’s nomination.