MDP President and former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has stated that it is premature to discuss the 2028 presidential elections, emphasising that the party's immediate priority is winning the 2026 local council elections.

The comment comes amid announcements by other party leaders regarding their intentions for the 2028 elections. Party Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has declared his candidacy for the presidential primaries, while former Vice President Faisal Naseem has also expressed interest. Speculation has arisen about Shahid’s potential candidacy, but he did not confirm his intentions during an appearance on RaajjeTV’s Falasuruhi programme.

Shahid redirected attention to holding the current government accountable, criticising what he described as its economic mismanagement and adverse impact on the Maldives.

"We cannot focus on 2028 while neglecting the damage this government is causing today. Our goal must be to expose these issues and prepare for the 2026 local council elections," Shahid said.

He stressed that the party’s efforts should centre on restoring democracy and addressing the needs of the Maldivian people. "For now, my mission is to ensure a strong outcome in the local council elections and bring about meaningful change," Shahid concluded.

While speculation about the 2028 elections continues, Shahid affirmed that no decision has been made regarding his potential candidacy.