Leader of the Joint Parliamentary Group Abdulla Riyaz has assured Jumhooree Party (JP) will not work with former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom for the upcoming parliamentary elections. The comments from the parliamentary group leader came at a time when Leader of JP Qasim Ibrahim has expressed interest to work with parties that does not form the government coalition.
Following Qasim's comments, opinions have been divided among the coalition members. The differences occurred when Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) decided to run for all the seats in the Parliament, despite an agreement with the coalition parties.
Speaking on a programme aired on PSM News, Deputy Leader of JP Abdulla Riyaz stated there will be no situation to work with former President Yameen. In this regard, Abdulla Riyaz assured JP will always back and support the administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
The parliamentarian noted the main aim of all political parties during the parliamentary elections is to secure as many seats for the administration, adding support from all political parties and leaders are necessary to fulfil the aim. Highlighting needing the support does not necessarily mean forming a coalition, Riyaz noted Yameen is now an opposition leader with no connection to the current administration.
Commenting regarding the differences in the coalition, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih expressed he seeks a parliament which will support the policies of the administration. Assuring the coalition will be maintained, the president also expressed the parliament majority must be held by coalition parties as it is vital to successfully the pledges.