Shareef affirms coalition will not upset supporters

People’s National Congress (PNC) Vice President and Maduvvari MP Adam Shareef reassured supporters of the opposition coalition that it will not let them down.

MP Shareef's comments followed discussions between the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and PNC coalition with The Democrats.

The Democrats was formed after several prominent members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) resigned from the ruling party to establish their own movement.

The opposition coalition, including The Democrats, is in talks to form a potential alliance to challenge Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the ruling party's presidential candidate and the incumbent head of state, in the upcoming elections.

While specific details of the discussions have not been disclosed, a local newspaper with ties to Speaker Mohamed Nasheed reported that both Nasheed and former President Abdulla Yameen will not be contesting the 2023 election. Instead, they are expected to endorse a candidate supported by the opposition coalition.

The discussions between the opposition coalition and The Democrats have sparked criticism from some members of the PPM senate. Many had expressed their disapproval of the decision, citing the lack of consensus among the senate members and questioning the intentions of Speaker Nasheed.

In response to the criticism, Shareef took to Twitter and stated that the PPM/PNC's primary focus is on securing Yameen's release and ensuring his victory in the presidential election. He emphasized that these objectives would be accomplished without upsetting the coalition's supporters.

"We assure not to commit any act that is offensive or disrespectful towards supporters or breach our policies. We will not allow any room for skepticism, so stay committed and affirmed," Shareef tweeted.

Despite facing criticism, the opposition coalition has not decided to decided to end its discussions with The Democrats and has held a meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 02.