South Hulhumale' MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed has today announced his intention to contest in the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) presidential primaries. 

Speaking to Mihaaru News, Shamheed opined that Maldives has failed on several fronts. He stated that the country is in need of a people who will rule for them, and for new faces to emerge into the political sphere. 

Shamheed expressed confidence that he will receive backing from a large portion of the party's membership as he runs for the ticket with fresh ideas and approaches. 

"MDP and the public in general want leaders who will address the real issues faced by them. The presidency has always been in the hands of a select group of elites. I believe I will get support from the public," Shamheed said. 

"Even here in parliament, what we are seeing is failed policies. We must show the public that there are other ways," he said. 

So far, two others have announced their candidacy for the MDP presidential primaries: former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail and former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid. 

Fayyaz and Shahid have both begun travelling to the atolls to campaign. 

Shamheed asserted that he comes with a promise of better options for the people, and believes he will succeed in the primaries.