Tuesday
14th May 2024
Dhivehi Edition
The Maldives Journal has learnt that the Speaker of the parliament and president of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Mohammed Nasheed is trying to hold an extraordinary congress of the party.
A parliamentarian from MDP who spoke to TMJ on the condition of anonymity stated that President Nasheed is planning to hold an extraordinary congress after realizing that he does not hold control over the national council of the party. The MP stated that Nasheed is trying to secure the party's presidential ticket for 2023 through the congress.
In addition, he is attempting to take action against President Solih.
"Nasheed is trying to take action against the president claiming that the president did not act upon the motion passed by the national council to announce a state of emergency. He will not be successful. We are much stronger" said the MP.
As per the by-laws of the party, the national congress is the most powerful institution of the party and it should be held every five years. However, if one-third of the branches of the party request to hold a congress, it can be held anytime. The by-laws of the party can be changed via the congress.
According to reliable sources, parliament members loyal to President Nasheed are now lobbying among the presidents of the party's branches. In addition, they are trying to form new branches as well. As per the party by-laws presidents of all branches are members of the congress.
Speaking to TMJ, Imthiyaz Fahmy the MP for the North Maafannu constituency stated that President Nasheed was of the view that an extraordinary congress should be held. However, he said that he was not aware of any preparations for a congress at the moment.
While President Nasheed is trying to hold an extraordinary congress, he stated that he will not work with President Solih anymore. Parliament members loyal to President Nasheed have been criticizing President Solih in the past few weeks.