Ahmed Mahloof, Former Maldives Minister, Resigns from Opposition MDP

Former Youth and Sports Minister Ahmed Mahloof has officially resigned from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), ending a political journey with the party that spanned over a decade.

In his resignation letter addressed to MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, Mahloof stated that he was stepping down from party membership after years of service. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities he received through the party, particularly highlighting his appointment to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s Cabinet in 2015 as a defining moment in his career.

Mahloof thanked the party for entrusting him with responsibilities and acknowledged the experiences gained during his tenure. He noted that his decision to leave came after careful consideration and reflected on the importance of respecting the party’s wider membership and values.

“After serving this party for many years, I take this step with a sense of responsibility and gratitude for the trust placed in me,” Mahloof wrote, adding that he was thankful for the support and cooperation he had received from colleagues during his political career.

The resignation marks a significant departure within MDP, once the country’s most dominant political force. Mahloof had been a prominent figure in youth and sports policymaking and one of the more visible faces of the party in recent years.

While Mahloof did not elaborate on his future political plans in the letter, there are reports suggesting that he may soon be joining the governing People’s National Congress (PNC). If confirmed, his move would further reshape the political landscape, as PNC continues to consolidate power under President Mohamed Muizzu.