Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson, former President Mohamed Nasheed, has criticized candidates running for the party's presidential ticket announcing running mates. 

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem yesterday officially announced his presidential run, and named Male' Mayor Adam Azim as his running mate. 

In a message sent to MDP's National Council, Nasheed opined that it would be wise to keep the running mate position open so as to have the option of negotiating with other political parties and reaching agreements when running for presidency. 

Nasheed said that the position of running mate is an additional advantage that MDP uses during negotiations with other political parties. 

"I hope candidates will not act in a manner that deprives us of this advantage," Nasheed's message reads. 

Responding to a message from a National Council member, Nasheed said that it is important to monitor what former President Abdulla Yameen decides in relation to the presidential race as well. 

"It will be beneficial to find a formula through which MDP can win in a single round. I expect the PNC will break down," Nasheed said. 

As of now, four candidates have announced their candidacies for the MDP's presidential primaries. These include Faisal Naseem, former MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, former MDP President Abdulla Shahid, and South Hulhumale' MP Dr. Ahmed Shamheed. 

From these, only Faisal has announced a running mate so far. 

Announcing his intention to run in a RaajjeTV programme yesterday, Faisal revealed that his decision was made with the endorsement of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. 

Azim also joined Faisal on the programme, where he stressed the importance of the Vice President of an MDP administration being from the party itself.