Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, the interim chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has formally proposed a postponement of the upcoming elections for the party’s permanent chairperson and National Council members.

The internal election was originally scheduled to take place on the 12th of next month. In a message shared with the MDP National Council, Ghafoor, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Hanimaadhoo, cited financial constraints as a primary reason for the delay, stating that the party currently lacks the funds to conduct two simultaneous elections.

Beyond budgetary concerns, Ghafoor emphasized the importance of maintaining political stability. He noted that proceeding with the election at this juncture could lead to internal discord, which would ultimately hinder the party’s ability to effectively hold the government accountable.

As part of his proposal, Ghafoor suggested that if the election is delayed, the party’s leadership should be managed by an interim administrative group that does not include him. This move is seen as an attempt to ensure neutrality during the transitional period.

The proposal follows a period of internal friction within the MDP. A motion to remove Ghafoor from his post was previously submitted after former President Mohamed Nasheed was reportedly denied the opportunity to speak at an event celebrating the party’s Local Council Election success, though that motion was later withdrawn.