Former President Mohamed Nasheed has said that although there is no shortage of people who support him, he stands in support of bringing former MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail to power.

Speaking on SSTV’s “Baaru Hatharey” programme, Nasheed said there are plenty of people who support bringing him to power, but in the 2028 presidential election, his backing lies with Fayyaz. He added that even if former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih were to contest for the MDP ticket, his decision would not change.

“Whoever comes forward [for the presidential ticket], I will remain as I stand. No — I am here in support of Fayyaz,” Nasheed said.

Nasheed’s remarks come at a time when reports have been circulating that many members of the party are calling on him to contest for the MDP ticket in the upcoming presidential election.

Nasheed and Fayyaz, who had previously traded heated exchanges, have now been working together for over a year. The two have put forward a set of proposed changes to the constitution and system of governance under the banner of “Bodu Badhalu” (The Big Change). These include splitting the roles of head of state and head of government between two people, along with changes relating to the People’s Majlis and independent institutions.

While Nasheed has already announced his support for Fayyaz’s ticket, others rumoured to be contesting for the MDP presidential ticket include the party’s former President Abdulla Shahid and former Vice President Faisal Naseem.