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Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed has rejoined the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), ending a nearly two-year split. Nasheed, who left the MDP during the 2023 presidential election after a rift with then-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, had formed The Democrats with his supporters in July 2023.
Leaders from the main opposition welcomed his return, which was confirmed after The Democrats' National Assembly passed a resolution supporting unification. The move aims to strengthen the opposition and prepare for next year’s local council elections.
MDP’s National Assembly discussed the development in an informal meeting and overwhelmingly backed Nasheed and his supporters rejoining the party. In a statement, the MDP said it remains open to those wishing to contribute meaningfully to the nation and looks forward to working with Nasheed again.
MDP leader Solih also welcomed Nasheed’s return. He posted on X: “The MDP must always uphold Islamic and democratic values and prioritise the people’s interest.”
Many senior leaders of The Democrats had already returned to MDP earlier this year. The split within the party is widely believed to have contributed to its 2023 electoral defeat.
Nasheed, a founding member and longtime leader of the MDP, announced earlier this month that he is considering running in the 2028 presidential election. He currently serves as Secretary General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, representing 74 climate-threatened nations.
Nasheed is also recognised for strengthening India-Maldives ties during his presidency, a legacy that continues to shape regional diplomacy.