Former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail has said the election of former President Mohamed Nasheed as MDP chairperson marks the beginning of efforts to bring about a "big change" in Maldives.

Fayyaz made the remarks in a social media post after Nasheed secured a landslide victory in the election to lead the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) for the next five years.

The former MDP chairperson, who led Nasheed's campaign, said he was encouraged by the rapid mobilization of party supporters across the country during the campaign.

Thanking members who took part in the vote, Fayyaz described the election as an important moment for those who prioritized the country's future over personal differences.

"MDP members have proved that they are ready for big change. With your vote for President Nasheed, the work of bringing 'Bodu Badhalu' to this country has started today. MDP forward," Fayyaz said.

Nasheed campaigned for the chairperson post under the slogan "Bodu Badhalu" (Big Change), defeating Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem.

Fayyaz also praised the efforts of Meekail's campaign team and called for unity within the party following the election.

"The next thing is for us to come together and defeat this government. We will move forward with the strength of our membership and do that work," he said.

Nasheed's Bodu Badhalu campaign was launched jointly with Fayyaz. At the time, both men said the chairperson bid formed part of a broader political strategy to position Fayyaz as the MDP's presidential candidate for the 2028 election and return the party to government.

Nasheed has also proposed constitutional reforms that would separate the roles of head of state and head of government. Under the proposal, the head of government would be elected directly by the public, rather than through a traditional parliamentary system.

He has previously said he would support Fayyaz for the role of head of government while seeking to serve as head of state under the proposed model.