Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will participate in the presidential debate, according to his campaign spokesperson and Defense Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi.

Several opposition parties have criticised President Solih for not participating in the presidential debate.

Addressing a press conference at the party's campaign office today, Mariya said the president felt it was more important to reach out to the people than to participate in debates to promote himself in the media.

However, she noted that the President will indeed participate in the debate hosted by MNU.

"I can confirm that President Solih will attend the MNU debate. It's a place for an academic debate. In universities, they will speak academically and study policies," Mariya said.

The president did not participate in the last presidential debate.

The September 9 elections marks the election with the most number of candidates.