The Edition
facebook icon twitter icon instagram icon linkedin icon

Latest

JP dissatisfied with VP Faisal's decision to support President Solih

Malika Shahid
15 February 2023, MVT 09:09
Vice President Faisal Naseem (Left) with Maamigili MP and Jumhooree Party leader Gasim Ibrahim: Before an official announcement was made by JP Vice President Faisal expressed his support to incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih
Malika Shahid
15 February 2023, MVT 09:09

The Jumhooree Party (JP)'s leadership has expressed dissatisfaction over Vice President Faisal Naseem's claim that he will support the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s presidential candidate and the incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in this year's presidential election.

Before JP announced its decision for the upcoming September 9 presidential election, the Vice President said in an exclusive interview with Mihaaru News that President Solih should be given a second term in office. It is important for the country's stability and progress, he said, adding that his "choice" is the current President.

The VP's decision comes as the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) CEO, Adam Azim, who is also a member of JP, expressed his support for President Solih. MTCC carries out large-scale developmental projects initiated by this administration.

In response to a journalist at the press conference held by JP on Tuesday, Ilham Ahmed, a special advisor to Jumhooree Party's leader Qasim Ibrahim, said that he did not accept the example set by these senior party members. He said that the best option would be for them to leave JP if they express their support for another candidate before JP has made any official announcements.

VP Faisal, who was selected as President Solih's running mate on a JP ticket, is a council member of the party, while Azim is an advisor to the party's leader.

Ilham, who is one of Qasim’s closest associates, highlighted that both VP Faisal and MTCC CEO Azim are expressing their support for President Solih's re-election on various news platforms, indicating their support for the MDP presidential candidate. He said that if they continue with their resolve, the best option would be to resign and leave the JP.

In the interview with Mihaaru News, VP Faisal said he has great confidence in President Solih and has no doubt that he will put the country and the people's needs first.

"The Jumhooree Party has not announced a specific candidate yet. However, the President is contesting [the election]. I think there should be the chance to continue and improve what we have started," he had said.

"Not just for five years; this coalition has to work together to move the country forward. To maintain peace and to bring progress and development to the people. There is certainly much more to be done in a second term."

Faisal has not been involved in JP activities since assuming the office as Vice President. Meanwhile, JP's council has expressed their wish for Qasim to contest in the election as the party's candidate.

MORE ON NEWS