The supporters of former president and leader of ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) Maumoon Abdul Gayoom decided to apply their candidacy for the upcoming Local Council Elections as Independent Candidates.
Talking about the elections, the former president of the Youth Branch of PPM Ibrahim Nazim said that he had earlier presented his candidacy forms at the official office of PPM. However, they were subsequently taken away by incumbent president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom's faction of the divided PPM after the lower court handed over party control from Gayoom to the president in the midst of the two half-brothers public political feud.
He added that President Yameen's faction had offered him the chance to nominate his name via their faction. However he had rejected the opportunity over the current situation of the party.
“The seat could only be won by the support of Maumoon, and I will stand with him," said Nazim.
As Nazim awaits his endorsement from Gayoom, the current leader of Noonu atoll Velidhoo island council Mohamed Irufan has also decided to do the same. He said that Maumoon has endorsed his name and will actively join him in his campaign.
Irufan added that they have chosen to follow Gayoom's decistion to take back his support for this government.
“The two islands consisting of Velidhoo constituency, Foh’dhu and Lhohi are also backing Maumoon in his decision."
Regarding the matter, the secretary general of Gayoom's faction said that they have received 257 candidacy forms for the Local Elections and several members wish to nominate their names as Independent Candidates.
“Some are also requesting an endorsement letter to confirm Leader Maumoon’s support, hence we will decide this after discussing with the council."
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