Maldives Presidential Race 2023: Incumbent President Solih Submits Candidacy

Maldives Presidential Race 2023: Incumbent President Solih Submits Candidacy

MDP’s Presidential Candidate: President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has officially submitted his candidacy form for the forthcoming 2023 presidential election. The form was handed over to the Elections Commission by MDP’s election agent, further solidifying the president’s intent to seek re-election.

Previously, President Solih had indicated that the selection of his running mate would be made after thorough deliberation and in consultation with senior party leaders. The decision has been eagerly awaited by both party members and the public.

Running Mate: Member of Parliament, Mohamed Aslam

MDP has publicly announced that the Member of Parliament for North Addu Hithadhoo constituency, Mohamed Aslam, will be Solih’s running mate for the election. Aslam, the leader of the MDP parliamentary group and the majority leader of the parliament, has been with the party since its inception and has worked alongside President Solih in the Parliament for several years.

The decision to select Aslam as Solih’s running mate underscores the party’s desire for the vice-presidential candidate for this year’s election to be a fellow party member. This decision is set to shape the dynamics of the election and the strategies of rival parties.

(Read Also: 2023 Maldives Presidential Election: President Solih Selects Mohamed Aslam as Running Mate)

Deadline for Candidacy Submission Looms

The deadline for submitting candidacy forms for the presidential election is fast approaching. The Election Commission has set specific times for accepting applications, reminding candidates to adhere to eligibility criteria as outlined in the Constitution and the Presidential Election Act.

Presidential Election Voting Times and Locations

The Election Commission has scheduled the voting period to take place from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm on September 9th. A total of 604 ballot boxes will be set up across the Maldives and abroad for the Presidential Election, ensuring that eligible voters, both local and overseas, can exercise their democratic right.

(Read Also: Maldives Supreme Court Bars Jailed Ex-President Yameen from Presidential Race, Shaping Landscape for Upcoming Elections)

Moving Forward

As the Maldives gears up for the 2023 presidential race, the submission of President Solih’s candidacy form marks a significant step forward in the process. The selection of Aslam as the running mate emphasizes the MDP’s commitment to unity and cohesion within the party. The forthcoming weeks and months will undoubtedly provide more insight into the strategies of the MDP and its rivals as they navigate the path to the election.

As the deadline for candidacy submission draws near, all eyes are on the Election Commission and the prospective candidates. The coming days will reveal who will lock horns with President Solih in the race for the presidency. The Maldivian public eagerly awaits the unfolding of events as they prepare to make a decision that will shape the nation’s political trajectory for the next few years.