The National Council of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) decided tonight to hold the party’s congress on September 19 of next month.

The proposal to hold the congress on September 19 was put forward by the party’s Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed, who chaired tonight’s National Council meeting. The motion passed with 52 votes out of the 63 members who attended the meeting.

Debate over the date revealed differing opinions among members. Some members preferred holding the congress after the National Council elections, since the current council’s term ends on September 25. However, Nasheed emphasized that holding the congress earlier was important because the amendments to be passed at the congress include changes to the party’s constitution, particularly regarding the composition of the National Council itself.

After roughly 20 minutes of debate, Nasheed called for a vote and the proposed date was approved.

“Even after holding the congress on September 19, there will be no delay in holding the National Council elections. I have no intention of extending the National Council’s term. The elections will be held before the current council’s term expires,” Nasheed said.

Among the amendments expected to be passed at the congress is reportedly one that would bar a Chairperson from contesting the presidential primary even if they step down from their position mid-term. It is also anticipated that the presidential primary for next year will be brought forward.

While MDP has set its congress for September 19, the ruling PNC’s congress is also scheduled to take place next month, from September 15 to 18.