Opposition candidate MP Ibu to UK on private visit

The presidential candidate of the joint opposition, Hinnavaru MP Ibrahim "Ibu" Mohamed Solih, on Wednesday departed to the United Kingdom on a personal visit.

This is the first visit abroad for Ibu, after he secured presidential candidacy representing the opposition coalition of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Jumhooree Party (JP), Adhaalath Party, and former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom supporters.

MDP's campaign team stated that Ibu, who is the party's parliamentary group leader, left to attend the graduation ceremony of his child. He is scheduled to return next week.

MDP added that Ibu would commence his campaign trips across the atolls upon his return.

Ibu with his running mate, Kaashidhoo MP Faisal Naseem of JP, had earlier this week conducted door-to-door campaign activities at Addu Atoll and Fuvahmulah in the south of Maldives.

Ibu has been expressing confidence that they could beat President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom in the coming election slated for September 23. Ibu and Faisal also vowed to restore democracy in Maldives and ensure all the rights accorded to citizens under the Maldivian Constitution.