Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih expressed disapproval last night of former President Mohamed Nasheed running for the MDP Chairperson post, stating that the opportunity instead must be given to build new leaders. 

Nasheed's opponent in the Chairperson race, South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem visited Lh. Hinnavaru yesterday as part of his campaign. For the first time, Solih participated in Meekail's campaign, accompanying him on this trip to his island of origin. 

Speaking at a rally held in Hinnavaru, Solih said that in order to work towards positive change, the party must promote the concept of bringing in a new leadership with fresh faces. Solih asserted his belief that Nasheed should not be contesting in this election. 

"I am not, in any way, criticizing Nasheed. Nor is it that I do not appreciate all the work he has done," Solih said. 

Solih said that Nasheed should prioritize the work of the United Democratic Front, formed with Solih and former President Abdulla Yameen, rather than the Chairperson election. 

He echoed Nasheed's recent rally remarks, stressing that a government change is vital and will require significant effort. 

Solih said that youth engagement in politics is increasing and warned that failing to shift MDP's leadership to the new generation would deny young members their chance to lead. He added that he does not want the party to face the kind of long-term leadership stagnation the country experienced during former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's 30-year rule, saying that history itself shows the need to allow new leaders to emerge. 

"So we must give this change to others and go forward with them," Solih said. 

Solih went on to note that MDP will mark its 21st anniversary next month, and said he hopes to see the two presidents elected through the party, former speakers and deputy speakers, and former party chairs stand together and hand over the party's administration to a new leadership. 

"Imagine our party standing with pride then. On that day, I want to see leadership passed to new hands. That is why I support Meekail," he said.

Solih stated that Nasheed is a senior political figure at MDP who was the first chairperson of the party, and who had served as the President of Maldives, of MDP, and as Parliament Speaker. He said that it is a matter of pride that there are young persons in the party who are ready to contest against even such senior figures in an election.