Incumbent president and Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has sought the support of The Democrats for the runoff polls.
With the second round of the presidential election just a day away, president Solih stated on Wednesday evening, September 27, that when the votes received by both MDP and The Democrats are combined, he has the upper hand over the opposition candidate, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Former MDP leader and current parliament speaker Mohamed Nasheed founded The Democrats along with former MDP members, who all exited the ruling party following in-party disputes.
While speaking at the MDP campaign rally in Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Thinadhoo, president Solih said that inclusive of the votes from The Democrats, MDP would have gained majority votes from most atolls.
During Wednesday evening's rally, several members of The Democrats from Thinadhoo formally endorsed president Solih for the runoff polls.
"What happened with us was that people who were with us from the beginning took some distance. Even with individual votes or by combining them, MDP received more votes compared to PPM," president Solih said.
He expressed joy of the recent endorsement from The Democrats members.
"With renewed hope we have more certainty that our efforts to rid the nation from injustice and fear will become successful, and I am certain we will see a significant majority from Thinadhoo City," president Solih added.
President Solih also said he now had renewed confidence of securing victory from the runoff polls on September 30, which he said was owed to the growing support from members of The Democrats.
One of the key figures from The Democrats supporters in Thinadhoo, Ali Ahmed Didi said that the best option for the party and the nation was to elect president Solih for a second term.
"We joined since we strongly believe that the best option for the Maldives is the president's ideals, not because of MDP. The initiatives on this island for the past five years is significant, and was executed exceptionally," Ali said.
The Democrats earlier announced it would remain neutral for the runoff polls. However, individual members of the party have been endorsing president Solih and Dr. Muizzu for the second round splitting the party's votes.
Meanwhile, leader of Adhaalath Party, Imran Abdulla projects 80 percent members of The Democrats would endorse president Solih.
After the recent exit of Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) from the ruling party's coalition, Adhaalath Party is the only remaining coalition partner of MDP.
Sign In
