The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) opened its fifth congress tonight to chants calling for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu‘s resignation, with the government’s Fisheries Minister Shiyam seated in the audience.

The calls erupted during the opening ceremony’s first item, an address by party chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed. As Nasheed began criticising the government, the hall filled with chants demanding the President’s resignation, while attendees raised placards bearing slogans expressing similar sentiments toward President Muizzu.

The congress, attended by 986 delegates, is being held at Malé City Hall from October 1 to 3.

In his address, Nasheed said the MDP is the longest-standing political party in the Maldives and that decentralisation remains its foremost priority. Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih said ensuring basic services across all islands is a key party priority, adding that public trust can only be earned by listening to the people and offering genuine solutions.

More than 100 projects from island councils are set to be presented at an investment forum held as part of the congress. Saturday’s agenda includes amendments to the party’s constitution and the submission of a resolution on decentralisation, and the party will also launch its mobile application during the congress. Foreign diplomats are among those attending, and the closing ceremony is scheduled for 9:00 pm on Saturday.