Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and former Vice President Faisal Naseem, both of whom have expressed interest in contesting the MDP presidential primary, held a meeting today to discuss the party’s approach to the 2028 presidential election.

The meeting, which lasted approximately an hour and a half, was held at President Solih’s office located in the building that houses Salt Café. Speaking to reporters afterwards, Faisal said he had discussed his ongoing efforts to contest the presidential election with President Solih, adding that he would officially announce his decision very soon.

When asked whether he had secured President Solih’s endorsement, Faisal did not give a direct answer. However, he emphasised that the most important thing was for MDP to win the 2028 election. He added that as a former head of state, President Solih is a responsible figure who would make a decision that serves the best interests of the country and its people.

Prior to this meeting, President Solih met with Malé Mayor Adam Azim last Thursday. Some MDP members have suggested that if Faisal wins the primary, Azim will be named as his running mate.

So far, three candidates have officially announced their intention to contest next year’s MDP presidential primary: former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail, former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, and Hulhumalé South MP Dr. Mohamed Shamheed. Of these, only Shahid has formally launched his campaign. Party Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed has announced that he will not contest the primary, and has thrown his support behind Fayyaz.