Former Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid has decided to contest for the presidency of the country’s largest political party, the Maldives Democratic Party (MDP).

Shahid recently posted on X that he has decided to contest for the post of MDP President.

“The MDP has come out with new enthusiasm and everyone should join hands to take Maldives back in the direction the people want,” Shahid said.

While Shahid has expressed his interest in becoming the MDP president, some MDP leaders and activists as well as a large number of members have started campaigning for Shahid.

The opportunity to apply for the post of MDP President is open until Tuesday. The presidential election is scheduled for next month.

The post of MDP President has become vacant after the incumbent, Mohamed Nasheed, left the party. However, the MDP National Assembly has temporarily appointed former President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih as the party's president. He is still in that position.