The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and visiting UK MP Richard Spring, from the Conservative Party, this week renewed calls for President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom to be offered security protection after his presidency concludes.
According to information minister Mohamed Nasheed, writing on his personal blog, Spring raised the issue with Gayoom when the two met on 30 July.
And Spring and MDP presidential candidate Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) told MDP supporters at the party’s Harugé centre on Thursday the MDP would support reconciliation if it came to power.
But Anni would not comment on speculation that the proposal was aimed at offering Gayoom, who has ruled the country for 30 years, an incentive to withdraw his candidacy ahead of the country’s first multi-party presidential elections, due by 10 October.
Urging the party to follow the example of past South African leader Nelson Mandela, Spring said on Thursday: “He came out of jail and said there should be no punishment against those who abused him.”
Anni said the gesture aimed to show “we are not in politics for a vendetta...former presidents should be able to live in dignity.” He had first publicly raised the idea of protection for Gayoom in December in an apparent attempt to appeal to moderates within the MDP.
Asked whether he would call for legal immunity for the President, or just security protection, Anni said he “cannot offer anything above the law”.
The country’s new constitution, which Gayoom has said he will ratify on 7 August, does not offer former presidents legal immunity, though it does give a limited immunity from civil cases whilst a president is in office.
Information minister Nasheed said on his blog that Spring had told him “the ‘outgoing’ president [should] be provided with security for life as regards his person and his civil liberties”, adding that Spring emphasised Anni should communicate this personally to Gayoom prior to elections.
Former president Ibrahim Nasir, who conceded the presidency voluntarily in 1978, was sentenced by Gayoom in 1981 for alleged corruption and planning a coup attempt against the Gayoom administration.
He was later pardoned, but has lived in Singapore since his presidency ended, never returning to the Maldives.
Nasir’s brother-in-law Ahmed Naseem and others were sentenced to life in 1981 over the alleged coup attempt, though they were later released, whilst Gayoom and other political leaders held meetings to denounce Nasir’s presidency.
Presidential candidate for the Social Liberal Party Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) said, “If [the MDP] is referring to the witch hunt that happened after Gayoom came to power, I would be inclined to agree that there shouldn’t be something like this.”
But he cautioned, “If an individual wants to seek redress [against Gayoom], and has justifiable grounds, then the courts should be handling it.”
The Gayoom government has been repeatedly accused of human rights abuses, whilst opposition activists including Anni have previously been named as Amnesty International prisoners of conscience.
Anni is one of six declared presidential candidates; others are Ibra, Umar Naseer of the Islamic Democratic Party, independent candidates Dr Hassan Saeed and Idham Muiz Adnan, and Gayoom.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
MDP, Conservatives Call For Protection For Gayoom Post-Presidency
Constitution Sent Back To President With Ministries Clause Unchanged
corrected version of the country’s new constitution was returned to President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on Friday, Speaker of the Special Majlis (constitutional assembly) Gasim Ibrahim told Minivan News on Saturday.
But no change has been made on the only substantive issue raised by the President in a letter sent last week, over clause 116 of the document, which requires parliamentary approval for the creation of new government ministries by the President.
“He only requested an explanation [on the clause]... it was not an administrative mistake or anything like this,” Gasim said.
The President has pledged to ratify the constitution in 7 August, but had asked for a response to his letter first.
New Ministries
Gayoom had asked for clarification from Gasim on why the clause in the final version required parliament to approve the creation of any new ministries, despite the Special Majlis having previously voted not to require such approval.
But Gayoom said in a press conference last Tuesday he would ratify the document on 7 August, whether or not the issues he had raised were resolved.
Gasim and chair of the constitutional drafting committee Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) appear to have stood firm over the clause, one of many in the new constitution which remove powers from the presidency.
Explanations
Gasim indicated the explanation he offered Gayoom on clause 116 reflected that given by Ibra last week on his personal blog.
Ibra wrote that as it was drafted, the constitution originally specified parliament should have the power to create ministries.
“The [constitutional] consultant, Professor Schmeiser, advised strongly that in any democracy...the ultimate power to create cabinet posts lies with the parliament,” Ibra said.
But the Special Majlis accepted an amendment “which was very ambiguous (in the context of the constitution), because...it said the president had the power to create ministries, but he should submit the decision to parliament,” according to Ibra.
Prior to the final “block vote” on the constitution, the clause was changed to require parliamentary approval, because in any case the word “submit” implies such approval, Ibra said. Others have translated the wording as “provide information to parliament”, however.
Because of a secretarial error, Ibra argued, the change to the clause was not highlighted when the constitution was circulated to Special Majlis members before the block vote.
Cronyism
Ibra also said the clause should combat cronyism, which “has ultimately led to the creation of over 20 ministries to manage a population of 300,000 people, and the appointment of persons to over 100 ‘cabinet and other senior level’ posts, culminating in a monthly wage bill of over Rf 6 million [US $469,000] for the taxpayer.”
The country’s current constitution assigns most powers to the President, including those of creating ministries and appointing ministers.
The new constitution introduces separation of powers in the country for the first time, and vastly reduces the authority of the presidency, often expanding the role of parliament instead.
“I have focused on removing his powers bit by bit, and doing it systematically,” Ibra said on his blog.
When the constitution was completed by the Special Majlis in June, former foreign minister Dr Ahmed Shaheed criticised it as “a straitjacket for Gayoom”.
But independent MP and human rights lawyer Husnu Suood said, “We achieved 99 per cent of what we hoped for.”
Ratification
Gayoom said in a press conference last Tuesday he would ratify the constitution on 7 August.
It had been completed by the Special Majlis on 26 June, but government had argued final reviews by the cabinet and attorney general were required, plus the passing of two new laws in parliament, before the constitution could come into effect.
After four years of work developing the document, this further delay sparked complaints from the opposition, culminating in a protest by over 1,000 people on 21 July.
The European Union (EU) also issued a statement on 25 July expressing “great concern” over delays to democratic reforms, noting the importance of holding multi-party presidential elections under the new constitution.
The transitional chapter of the constitution requires elections to be held by 10 October, with an independent interim elections commission due to come into place first.
We will establish a university:MDP
The Main opposition MDP has said that they will be establishing the first university of Maldives when their government assumes duties from 11 November 2008. This was said by MDP's Parliamentary Leader Hassan Afeef when he spoke at a meeting held in honour of the visiting British conservative party member. Afeef said, there had been too much talk in presidential addresses and at the opening of the Majlis and now it is too late for President Gayoom's Government to seize this opportunity.
" Singapore attained independence with us. See the difference between our two countries. Singapore does not have that many resources., We are blessed with enormous marine resources, beautiful islands. But just see the vast difference between us. " comparing Singapore's dramatic development, Afeef said.
He questioned, what has the Government done with all the wealth it has earned. He agreed there is some development, but health services and living conditions should have been much better, Afeef said. When we are embracing change, everyone must think about this seriously, a change which has not happened in 30 years cannot be achieved in 5 years, Afeef warned. He asked the people to think carefully when they vote for a president.
Afeef went on to say Maldivian people are not benefiting from the wealth of the nation although the GDP is high and MDP will ensure the wealth of the nation is fairly distributed and people enjoy a better life under an MDP lead Government. He assured that they will provide imroved health and education in the country. MDP does not want people to remain destitutes and go to neighbouring countries for every major treatment.
" Singapore attained independence with us. See the difference between our two countries. Singapore does not have that many resources., We are blessed with enormous marine resources, beautiful islands. But just see the vast difference between us. " comparing Singapore's dramatic development, Afeef said.
He questioned, what has the Government done with all the wealth it has earned. He agreed there is some development, but health services and living conditions should have been much better, Afeef said. When we are embracing change, everyone must think about this seriously, a change which has not happened in 30 years cannot be achieved in 5 years, Afeef warned. He asked the people to think carefully when they vote for a president.
Afeef went on to say Maldivian people are not benefiting from the wealth of the nation although the GDP is high and MDP will ensure the wealth of the nation is fairly distributed and people enjoy a better life under an MDP lead Government. He assured that they will provide imroved health and education in the country. MDP does not want people to remain destitutes and go to neighbouring countries for every major treatment.
Majlis delegation attends 54th CPA meeting
A delegation from the People's Majlis comprising of 2 Raa Atoll members, Ali Waheed and Ibrahim Shaheed Zaki and Secretary General of the Majlis Ahmed Mohamed is visiting Kuala Lumpur to attend the 54th Annual Meeting of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, CPA. The 10 day meeting will deliberate on issues of environment development and security and on widening the role of parliament in these matters.
Along side the main meeting, there will be a meeting for small states of the Commonwealth which will deal with sustainable development, water and waste management, conflicts of interest, corruption, and democratic elections.
The Maldives delegation to this meeting will be headed by Raa member Shaheed Zaki who will make a presentation at the meeting. " We will present a paper at the meeting. Conflict of interest, corruption are major problems facing the region. We have highlighted on the situation of these problems in our country. We have also looked at ways of countering these problems." Saheed Zaki told Miadhu daily before leaving for the meeting. Maldives became a member of CPA in 2000.
Mohamed Shihab likely to be new Speaker
When President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom ratifies the new Constitution on coming Thursday, 7 August, the People's Majlish will assume much wider responsibilities and powers including taking up some urgent transitional matters that have to be decided for the implementation of the Constitution. One of the big tasks of the Majlis would be to elect a Speaker and Deputy Speaker from among the members of the Majlis. Present Speaker Ahmed Zahir has done a superb job during the past 4 years. Zahir is a veteran parliamentarian who has a reputation of being one of the most vocal members famours for his oratary skills and eloquence. Zahir is appointed by the President and unless President freshly appoints him as a member, the Majlis cannot elect him under the new Constitution. There are rumours Zahir may soon be appointed a President's member so that he can be reelected as the Speaker for the remaing six months of the Majlis under the transitional provisions..Some analysts believe Zahir may be DRP's favoured candidate for the post and there is a strong possibility of getting the required majority for him with the support of other members.
There are rumours popular Male' member and former MDP senior member Mohamed Shihab is also vying for the high profile post. It appears, Shihab who has been a member of the Majlis for 25 and who is also a highly vocal and respected member may have a better chance to become the new Speaker. Although Shihab has recently resigned from MDP, he is popular with the opposition members and independents. Shihab has lost his Government job of Managing Director of Maldives Posts since assuming a proactive role in the opposition MDP two years ago. But after resigning from MDP, he has said he does not want join any parrties indicating his desire to remain independent.
Shihab's revered father late Ibrahim Shihab was also Speaker for several years and he was widely known as the golden tounge of Maldives for his extraordinary eloquence. Ibrahim Shihab was a much respected politician who held many powerful ministerial posts. He was one of the Vice Presidents during the last months of former President Ibrahim Nasir. Ibrahim Shihab was fallen out of President Gayoom's loyalists in the early part of Gayoom's presidency, but because of the superior brilliance of the veteran politician, Ibrahim Shihab soon became one of the senior ministers in Gayoom's cabinet.
There are rumours popular Male' member and former MDP senior member Mohamed Shihab is also vying for the high profile post. It appears, Shihab who has been a member of the Majlis for 25 and who is also a highly vocal and respected member may have a better chance to become the new Speaker. Although Shihab has recently resigned from MDP, he is popular with the opposition members and independents. Shihab has lost his Government job of Managing Director of Maldives Posts since assuming a proactive role in the opposition MDP two years ago. But after resigning from MDP, he has said he does not want join any parrties indicating his desire to remain independent.
Shihab's revered father late Ibrahim Shihab was also Speaker for several years and he was widely known as the golden tounge of Maldives for his extraordinary eloquence. Ibrahim Shihab was a much respected politician who held many powerful ministerial posts. He was one of the Vice Presidents during the last months of former President Ibrahim Nasir. Ibrahim Shihab was fallen out of President Gayoom's loyalists in the early part of Gayoom's presidency, but because of the superior brilliance of the veteran politician, Ibrahim Shihab soon became one of the senior ministers in Gayoom's cabinet.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
More Cards On The Table As MDP Meets On Joint Candidate
Mohamed Nasheed (Anni), presidential candidate for the largest opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), on Wednesday publicly said he was seeking to become the running mate of independent candidate Dr Hassan Saeed, who is running under the New Maldives banner.
Ahead of the MDP’s National Council meeting scheduled for Thursday night, Anni said that he believed Saeed “should be the candidate” for the National Unity Alliance of five opposition groups, and added: “We hope [the] Adhaalath [party] will support this combination.”
The pair have long been rumoured to be seeking a joint campaign. But on 29 April the Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) proposed finance minister Gasim Ibrahim as a potential Alliance candidate, despite his government position.
However MDP parliamentary group leader Hassan Afeef said he believed the MDP could secure support from “the majority of the Alliance” for the Saeed-Anni team.
Party Endorsement
Anni last week secured a landslide victory to become the MDP candidate, with 68 per cent of the party vote.
But he had campaigned heavily on an Alliance platform, leading to wide speculation he would seek a pairing with former attorney general Saeed – an idea believed to have boosted his support in Saeed’s home atoll of Addu.
The plan was not made public until Wednesday, when Anni said he was prepared to become Saeed’s running mate at a meeting in the party’s Harugé centre in Malé.
But the question of party endorsement remains. A proposal on the principle of a joint candidate has now been submitted to the MDP’s National Council, with a vote scheduled for Thursday night.
The proposal refers simply to “a joint candidate from within the Alliance”. Asked whether this ruled out Gasim, currently a vice-president of the ruling Dhivehi Raiyyithunge Party (DRP), Afeef said: “If Gasim remains in the DRP he will not be a presidential candidate – the best he could achieve would be a running mate position.”
But he added: “[Gasim] is a person who can understand what the people want and what the reformists are looking for.”
With the Alliance due to meet again next week on the issue, it appears doubtful a final conclusion will be reached by the MDP on Thursday.
And MDP spokespeople would not comment on the possibility of Gasim emerging as an opponent to Saeed and Anni.
Power Sharing
Details of a possible power-sharing arrangement for an Alliance coalition have yet to emerge, but Afeef and Anni said on Thursday they would expect member parties to gain cabinet positions “in proportion to their number of members”.
Asked where that would leave Saeed’s New Maldives colleagues Dr Ahmed Shaheed, given the unregistered movement has no official membership, the MDP leaders called for the former foreign minister to join their party.
“Dr Shaheed has the political insight for a cabinet portfolio. But if he doesn’t belong to a political party he doesn’t have a chance,” said Afeef.
Shaheed was travelling and unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.
Adhaalath Power
With at least six thousand members registered by the Elections Commission, and claiming it actually commands the support of 15,000 Maldivians, the backing of the religious Adhaalath party could be crucial to any Alliance or partial-Alliance candidate.
Adhaalath spokesman Shaheem Ali Said told Minivan News: “The Adhaalath cannot do anything without the MDP, and the MDP cannot do anything by themselves.”
Having declared the party will back another group’s candidate rather than field its own, a five-member Adhaalath committee has started considering the options, according to Shaheem.
But he warned: “If Hassan Saeed and Anni agree on their own sharing, then it is not Alliance.”
Cabinet positions would be secondary for Adhaalath, he added. “The main target is to show a good [candidate] to the people.”
Unacceptable?
Of the remaining Alliance members, the IDP has previously told local newspaper Miadhu it would find an Anni/Saeed team unacceptable.
And head of the Social Liberal Party Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) has repeatedly said he does not support identifying a joint candidate at this stage.
New election regulations require that if no candidate secures more than 50 per cent of the vote initially, a second vote must be held between the two frontrunners. Ibra argues multiple candidates will increase turnout in the first round, meaning incumbent president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom could face a second round against a default opposition candidate.
Ahead of the MDP’s National Council meeting scheduled for Thursday night, Anni said that he believed Saeed “should be the candidate” for the National Unity Alliance of five opposition groups, and added: “We hope [the] Adhaalath [party] will support this combination.”
The pair have long been rumoured to be seeking a joint campaign. But on 29 April the Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) proposed finance minister Gasim Ibrahim as a potential Alliance candidate, despite his government position.
However MDP parliamentary group leader Hassan Afeef said he believed the MDP could secure support from “the majority of the Alliance” for the Saeed-Anni team.
Party Endorsement
Anni last week secured a landslide victory to become the MDP candidate, with 68 per cent of the party vote.
But he had campaigned heavily on an Alliance platform, leading to wide speculation he would seek a pairing with former attorney general Saeed – an idea believed to have boosted his support in Saeed’s home atoll of Addu.
The plan was not made public until Wednesday, when Anni said he was prepared to become Saeed’s running mate at a meeting in the party’s Harugé centre in Malé.
But the question of party endorsement remains. A proposal on the principle of a joint candidate has now been submitted to the MDP’s National Council, with a vote scheduled for Thursday night.
The proposal refers simply to “a joint candidate from within the Alliance”. Asked whether this ruled out Gasim, currently a vice-president of the ruling Dhivehi Raiyyithunge Party (DRP), Afeef said: “If Gasim remains in the DRP he will not be a presidential candidate – the best he could achieve would be a running mate position.”
But he added: “[Gasim] is a person who can understand what the people want and what the reformists are looking for.”
With the Alliance due to meet again next week on the issue, it appears doubtful a final conclusion will be reached by the MDP on Thursday.
And MDP spokespeople would not comment on the possibility of Gasim emerging as an opponent to Saeed and Anni.
Power Sharing
Details of a possible power-sharing arrangement for an Alliance coalition have yet to emerge, but Afeef and Anni said on Thursday they would expect member parties to gain cabinet positions “in proportion to their number of members”.
Asked where that would leave Saeed’s New Maldives colleagues Dr Ahmed Shaheed, given the unregistered movement has no official membership, the MDP leaders called for the former foreign minister to join their party.
“Dr Shaheed has the political insight for a cabinet portfolio. But if he doesn’t belong to a political party he doesn’t have a chance,” said Afeef.
Shaheed was travelling and unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.
Adhaalath Power
With at least six thousand members registered by the Elections Commission, and claiming it actually commands the support of 15,000 Maldivians, the backing of the religious Adhaalath party could be crucial to any Alliance or partial-Alliance candidate.
Adhaalath spokesman Shaheem Ali Said told Minivan News: “The Adhaalath cannot do anything without the MDP, and the MDP cannot do anything by themselves.”
Having declared the party will back another group’s candidate rather than field its own, a five-member Adhaalath committee has started considering the options, according to Shaheem.
But he warned: “If Hassan Saeed and Anni agree on their own sharing, then it is not Alliance.”
Cabinet positions would be secondary for Adhaalath, he added. “The main target is to show a good [candidate] to the people.”
Unacceptable?
Of the remaining Alliance members, the IDP has previously told local newspaper Miadhu it would find an Anni/Saeed team unacceptable.
And head of the Social Liberal Party Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) has repeatedly said he does not support identifying a joint candidate at this stage.
New election regulations require that if no candidate secures more than 50 per cent of the vote initially, a second vote must be held between the two frontrunners. Ibra argues multiple candidates will increase turnout in the first round, meaning incumbent president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom could face a second round against a default opposition candidate.
Leader will win election regardless of running mate - Shafiu
Chief Spokesperson of DRP Ibrahim Shafiu has said that President Gayoom will win the next presidential elections by 65% majority regardless of his choice of running mate. He made the statement to Miadhu Daily when asked to comment on the speculation of many political minded people of the general public that President Gayoom’s success in the forthcoming presidential elections depends on whom he choose to be his running mate.
Chief Spokesperson said that President Gayoom’s success has no relation to his running mate and that President Gayoom will win the first multiparty presidential elections to be held later this year will be won by 65% majority regardless of who of the running mate.
“In actual fact when you consider the support and affection the president has it makes no difference who the running mate is, he will win the top office even if there is no running mate, I have full confidence that President Gayoom will win by at least 65% even if he choose a man from the street as his running mate “ Shafiu said.
Shafiu further said election results will be affected depending on the running mate the President choose and that if the running mate is a person with good relations with the people the result would go up from 65% to 76%.
“One cannot say that success of President Gayoom in the next presidential elections depend on his running mate, considering the popularity of the President, but wining with a huge majority is entirely a different matter, President Gayoom’s choice of running mate can make a big difference and help the president win by landslide, the point I am making here is it does not matter who the running mate is, President has enough support to win this elections’ said Shaifu.
Despite Shafiu’s comments many feel that unless President Gayoom chose somebody like Finance Minister Qasim Ibrahim he will not win the elections.
Chief Spokesperson said that President Gayoom’s success has no relation to his running mate and that President Gayoom will win the first multiparty presidential elections to be held later this year will be won by 65% majority regardless of who of the running mate.
“In actual fact when you consider the support and affection the president has it makes no difference who the running mate is, he will win the top office even if there is no running mate, I have full confidence that President Gayoom will win by at least 65% even if he choose a man from the street as his running mate “ Shafiu said.
Shafiu further said election results will be affected depending on the running mate the President choose and that if the running mate is a person with good relations with the people the result would go up from 65% to 76%.
“One cannot say that success of President Gayoom in the next presidential elections depend on his running mate, considering the popularity of the President, but wining with a huge majority is entirely a different matter, President Gayoom’s choice of running mate can make a big difference and help the president win by landslide, the point I am making here is it does not matter who the running mate is, President has enough support to win this elections’ said Shaifu.
Despite Shafiu’s comments many feel that unless President Gayoom chose somebody like Finance Minister Qasim Ibrahim he will not win the elections.
Dr. Shaheed express doubts over Alliance ability to have a single candidate
Dr. Ahmed Shaeed former Foreign Minister as well as the Chief Spokesperson of the National Unity Alliance has expressed doubts over the alliance ability to agree on a single candidate.
Dr. Shaheed said that there are major differences among the members of the alliance. “Individual parties should not attempting be attempting to take ownership of the Alliance, the biggest reason why the people hate the government is because some people have made it their own property” Dr. Shaheed said. He said the government that is going to be formed at this stage should be formed among majority of the parties.
“If the intentions are to work for the future benefits of the people then the government this going to formed should have the participation of the parties” said Dr. Shaheed. He further said the objective of the alliance is to introduce reform and that it can be achieved by an alliance of any group.
Dr. Shaheed and Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) are of the opinion that Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) must play a major role in bringing a single candidate to represent the Alliance. Vice President of IDP Mohamed Hassan Manik said that it is up to MDP to bring out a single candidate and that it was in the hands of the National Council of MDP.
Dr. Shaheed said that MDP’s role on the issue is important simply because MDP is main opposition party and if the Alliance is to bring out side MDP then the opportunit
Dr. Shaheed said that there are major differences among the members of the alliance. “Individual parties should not attempting be attempting to take ownership of the Alliance, the biggest reason why the people hate the government is because some people have made it their own property” Dr. Shaheed said. He said the government that is going to be formed at this stage should be formed among majority of the parties.
“If the intentions are to work for the future benefits of the people then the government this going to formed should have the participation of the parties” said Dr. Shaheed. He further said the objective of the alliance is to introduce reform and that it can be achieved by an alliance of any group.
Dr. Shaheed and Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) are of the opinion that Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) must play a major role in bringing a single candidate to represent the Alliance. Vice President of IDP Mohamed Hassan Manik said that it is up to MDP to bring out a single candidate and that it was in the hands of the National Council of MDP.
Dr. Shaheed said that MDP’s role on the issue is important simply because MDP is main opposition party and if the Alliance is to bring out side MDP then the opportunit
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
IDP propose Qasim as Alliance candidate
Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) has proposed Finance Minister Qasim Ibrahim as the presidential candidate of the Alliance to compete against president Gayoom in the forthcoming presidential elections scheduled for later this year. The proposal came at the meeting of the Alliance held yesterday.
Speaking at the meeting President of IDP said that if the Alliance is considering to have a candidate out side the Alliance then the candidate must have the capacity and ability to defeat President Gayoom and that IDP proposes Finance Minister Qasim Ibrahim to that candidate. Umar also proposed that if candidate is to be elected within the Alliance then a primary election should be held. Umar informed that although a decision was not reached at yesterday’s meeting, the Alliance did not reject IDP’s proposals. Further Miadhu Daily also learnt that MDP president Dr. Munavavar informed the Alliance that the matter of Alliance being represented by candidate outside MDP needs to be addressed first at the party’s National Council.
Attempts made by Miadhu Daily to contact the Spokesperson of the Alliance Dr. Ahmed Shaheed to obtain more information on the meeting proved futile. However speaking to Miadhu Daily on an earlier occasion Dr. Shaheed has said that to have an outside candidate was not acceptable.
Leader of Social Liberal Party (SLP) Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) speaking at a news conference has said that the comments made some politicians in the name of Alliance were not true and that the Alliance has not reached a decision on its candidate.
Speaking at the news conference Ibra condemned that the claims made by some politicians, in the name of the Alliance, that the next government would be formed by a specific party. He also said that those claims that international community prefers a single candidate to represent the alliance are also simply not true.
According to Ibra the objective of the Alliance was to introduce some changes to the political arena but that what he is now seeing is that some politicians attempting to achieve other objectives rather than what the Alliance was established for. He said if any one of the five which forms the Alliance breaks away then it will no longer be called an Alliance.
Speaking at the meeting President of IDP said that if the Alliance is considering to have a candidate out side the Alliance then the candidate must have the capacity and ability to defeat President Gayoom and that IDP proposes Finance Minister Qasim Ibrahim to that candidate. Umar also proposed that if candidate is to be elected within the Alliance then a primary election should be held. Umar informed that although a decision was not reached at yesterday’s meeting, the Alliance did not reject IDP’s proposals. Further Miadhu Daily also learnt that MDP president Dr. Munavavar informed the Alliance that the matter of Alliance being represented by candidate outside MDP needs to be addressed first at the party’s National Council.
Attempts made by Miadhu Daily to contact the Spokesperson of the Alliance Dr. Ahmed Shaheed to obtain more information on the meeting proved futile. However speaking to Miadhu Daily on an earlier occasion Dr. Shaheed has said that to have an outside candidate was not acceptable.
Leader of Social Liberal Party (SLP) Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) speaking at a news conference has said that the comments made some politicians in the name of Alliance were not true and that the Alliance has not reached a decision on its candidate.
Speaking at the news conference Ibra condemned that the claims made by some politicians, in the name of the Alliance, that the next government would be formed by a specific party. He also said that those claims that international community prefers a single candidate to represent the alliance are also simply not true.
According to Ibra the objective of the Alliance was to introduce some changes to the political arena but that what he is now seeing is that some politicians attempting to achieve other objectives rather than what the Alliance was established for. He said if any one of the five which forms the Alliance breaks away then it will no longer be called an Alliance.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
HRCM Will Not Observe Presidential Elections
The Human Rights Commission (HRCM) has decided not to send observers to the Maldives’ first multi-party presidential elections, expected later this year.
Commissioner Mariyam Azra Ahmed said the decision had been taken because “other human rights commissions do not observe elections”.
The HRCM sent ten observers to last year’s referendum on form of government, in which Maldivians chose a presidential over a parliamentary system. It judged the referendum to be “generally fair”.
Former foreign minister Dr Ahmed Shaheed, who recently set up the organisation Maldives Election Watch to “be vigilant over any moves to prevent free and fair elections”, said the decision was “very disappointing and very strange”.
The HRCM will be involved to the extent of “see[ing] that all individuals receive the right to vote,” said Azra. But the nature of its involvement will not be determined until June.
Assistant director general Mohamed Tholal, of the Elections Commission, said the body had not yet invited any observers to attend the elections, as a date has not been set.
Recently passed transitional material in the constitution in progress specifies elections must be held by 10 October 2008, though the elections commission – due to become independent within 30 days of ratification of the constitution – must set a date.
But the foreign ministry has invited international bodies such as the European Union (EU) to observe, with the EU pledging a “technical team” of up to four members, and the Commonwealth saying details of its involvement have not yet been confirmed.
The HRCM’s verdict on last August’s referendum was that the poll had been “generally fair,” despite claims by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) that the vote was rigged.
In its press release on the referendum, the HRCM said “few complaints of bribing, intimidation, use of influence and other such cases in breach of the regulations… were received.”
But it also said there were areas in need of improvement, such as “a more open and transparent approach...during the process of casting and counting the ballots”, and the “involve[ment of] all political parties”.
Before it became independent under the Human Rights Commission Act, the HRCM judged parliamentary elections held in January 2005 to be “not in general free, fair or without undue influence”, though its findings were dismissed by the Maldivian government at that time.
The HRCM has now been “advised” election observation does not fall within its mandate, according to Azra.
Commissioner Mariyam Azra Ahmed said the decision had been taken because “other human rights commissions do not observe elections”.
The HRCM sent ten observers to last year’s referendum on form of government, in which Maldivians chose a presidential over a parliamentary system. It judged the referendum to be “generally fair”.
Former foreign minister Dr Ahmed Shaheed, who recently set up the organisation Maldives Election Watch to “be vigilant over any moves to prevent free and fair elections”, said the decision was “very disappointing and very strange”.
The HRCM will be involved to the extent of “see[ing] that all individuals receive the right to vote,” said Azra. But the nature of its involvement will not be determined until June.
Assistant director general Mohamed Tholal, of the Elections Commission, said the body had not yet invited any observers to attend the elections, as a date has not been set.
Recently passed transitional material in the constitution in progress specifies elections must be held by 10 October 2008, though the elections commission – due to become independent within 30 days of ratification of the constitution – must set a date.
But the foreign ministry has invited international bodies such as the European Union (EU) to observe, with the EU pledging a “technical team” of up to four members, and the Commonwealth saying details of its involvement have not yet been confirmed.
The HRCM’s verdict on last August’s referendum was that the poll had been “generally fair,” despite claims by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) that the vote was rigged.
In its press release on the referendum, the HRCM said “few complaints of bribing, intimidation, use of influence and other such cases in breach of the regulations… were received.”
But it also said there were areas in need of improvement, such as “a more open and transparent approach...during the process of casting and counting the ballots”, and the “involve[ment of] all political parties”.
Before it became independent under the Human Rights Commission Act, the HRCM judged parliamentary elections held in January 2005 to be “not in general free, fair or without undue influence”, though its findings were dismissed by the Maldivian government at that time.
The HRCM has now been “advised” election observation does not fall within its mandate, according to Azra.
Ibra to commence campaign visits to atolls
Leader of Social Liberal Party (SLP) Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) who has launched his presidential campaign at ceremony held at Dharubaaruge last March has said that he will commence his campaign trips to atolls on the 4 th of next month. Ibra made the statement speaking at a news conference held at newsroom “Fansavees” of Dharubaargue.
Ibra said that he will initially be visiting northern atolls and that he will be returning after visiting all the inhabited islands of the northern atolls. He said before returning he will pass on his message to the people. He said he is starting the after completion of all the work at the Drafting Committee as promised.
Leader of Social Liberal Party Ibra said that no body can win any election without a campaign. Responding to comments of some parties that campaigning is being carried out in violation of pertinent regulations Ibra said if it is an offense then the matter should be taken to courts and that he was ready for it.
Ibra said that he will initially be visiting northern atolls and that he will be returning after visiting all the inhabited islands of the northern atolls. He said before returning he will pass on his message to the people. He said he is starting the after completion of all the work at the Drafting Committee as promised.
Leader of Social Liberal Party Ibra said that no body can win any election without a campaign. Responding to comments of some parties that campaigning is being carried out in violation of pertinent regulations Ibra said if it is an offense then the matter should be taken to courts and that he was ready for it.
Dr. Hassan & Anni to represent Alliance
Reliable sources confirm that the National Unity Alliance is bringing out former Attorney General Dr. Hassan Saeed and former chairperson of MDP Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) who won the party’s presidential primary on the 25 of this month as Alliance’s candidates for the forthcoming presidential elections scheduled for later this year.
A person having connections with Alliance and well acquainted with the thinking of the Alliance informed that although no official decisions has been reached, an understanding has been reached between Anni and Dr. Hassan Saeed. According to the agreement Dr. Hassan Saeed is going to be the presidential candidate of the Alliance and MDP presidential candidate Anni will be the running mate reports the person. Attempts made by Maidhu Daily to confirm the story by contacting either of the candidate or the Spokesperson of the Alliance Dr. Shaheed proved unsuccessful.
However Umar Naseer leader of Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) one of the parties forming the alliance said that so far no discussion has been held on the subject. He said however a meeting has been scheduled for today. He also said the candidates mentioned by the reliable source were not acceptable.
“No discussions has been held on the subject of candidates, however there is a meeting scheduled for today, the pair mentioned in the information received to Miadhu Daily is not acceptable to IDP” said Umar Naseer President of IDP.
Despite Umar’s views the reliable source confirmed that although some parties within the alliance may not agree on the pair, they will be coming out to stand presidential elections with the other parties that agree on them and that the pair will be seen in the presidential race.
The question now is will the pair, Dr. Hassan and Anni be accepted by the Maldivian people and will they have the capacity to defeat President Gayoom who has been in power for the last 3 decades. Many consider Dr. Hassan as relatively new but capable politician and Anni as a well experienced political activist.
However supporters of President Gayyom say that the President Gayoom has the capacity and experience to defeat anybody that challenge him. What ever it may be the next presidential election is certainly going to be very competitive.
A person having connections with Alliance and well acquainted with the thinking of the Alliance informed that although no official decisions has been reached, an understanding has been reached between Anni and Dr. Hassan Saeed. According to the agreement Dr. Hassan Saeed is going to be the presidential candidate of the Alliance and MDP presidential candidate Anni will be the running mate reports the person. Attempts made by Maidhu Daily to confirm the story by contacting either of the candidate or the Spokesperson of the Alliance Dr. Shaheed proved unsuccessful.
However Umar Naseer leader of Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) one of the parties forming the alliance said that so far no discussion has been held on the subject. He said however a meeting has been scheduled for today. He also said the candidates mentioned by the reliable source were not acceptable.
“No discussions has been held on the subject of candidates, however there is a meeting scheduled for today, the pair mentioned in the information received to Miadhu Daily is not acceptable to IDP” said Umar Naseer President of IDP.
Despite Umar’s views the reliable source confirmed that although some parties within the alliance may not agree on the pair, they will be coming out to stand presidential elections with the other parties that agree on them and that the pair will be seen in the presidential race.
The question now is will the pair, Dr. Hassan and Anni be accepted by the Maldivian people and will they have the capacity to defeat President Gayoom who has been in power for the last 3 decades. Many consider Dr. Hassan as relatively new but capable politician and Anni as a well experienced political activist.
However supporters of President Gayyom say that the President Gayoom has the capacity and experience to defeat anybody that challenge him. What ever it may be the next presidential election is certainly going to be very competitive.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Past actions was based on informed decisions - Anni
Presidential Candidate of Maldivian Democratic Party Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) has revealed that as a politician he was fully aware of what he was doing and what ever he did in the past was carried out with the advice and guidance of other well experienced sources. Anni made the statement speaking on HFM “Jadhalu” (challenge) program when asked when asked whether his actions were based on informed decisions in the past.
Speaking on Jadhalu program of HFM Anni said that if one is to look back there is always the chance to feel that something could have been done better but that his past actions were always based on well informed decisions and that he was fully aware of what was doing at all times. He further said that there is simply no reason for anybody to believe that some of his actions were done unknowingly. When asked by a listener whether he believed that MDP primary elections was conducted as per democratic principles Anni replied that following established election procedures means following democratic principles.
In response to the claims that in the recent MDP primary election held last Friday some supporters were actively seeking support for a specific candidate while the election was going on Anni said that the election regulation do not state when the campaign should be stopped and that some members are finding it difficult to accept it the way t results turned out. When asked whether he believed that the rally of November 10, 2007 which called for the completion of constitutional reform was a success for him against MDP parliamentary group, Anni said that it was a success for the entire party.
He said when MDP declared that the constitution to be completed by November 10, Majlis endorsed to complete the constitutional reform by 30 November. He further said it was only after the rally that Majlis agreed on a transitional process. When asked whether there was any legal restriction that would prevent him from running for presidency later in the year Anni replied that he do not believe that there was any. He said some constitutional experts as well as the president of the Religious Council of MDP are of the opinion that he has not committed a crime that would prevent him standing elections.
When asked what was the secret of his success in the presidential primary Anni replied that 50% of his success can be attributed to his stand on the Alliance. He also said other reasons for his victory was his long and hard struggle to introduce reform without losing focus and his scientific style of campaigning.
Alliance candidate need not be from MDP- Umar
Umar Naseer, President of Islamic Democratic Party (IDP) as well as the party’s presidential candidate has said that the candidate to represent the national Unity Alliance (NUA) does not necessarily have to be from the Alliance. Referring to statements from some MDP officials that the candidate to represent the Alliance has to be MDP Candidate Umar said that the alliance candidate does not necessarily have to be Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) or Dr. Hassan Saeed. He further said if the Alliance agrees on a candidate out side the Alliance who has the capacity to defeat the President Gayoom in the forthcoming presidential elections then all the parties and organizations forming the alliance will have to accept it.
“The Alliance candidate does not have to be Anni or Dr. Hassan or even me, if the Alliance agrees on a candidate outside the Alliance who has the capacity and capability to defeat President Gayoom then it has to be accepted. Isn’t that democracy” said Umar. In addition Umar said that it should not be the intention of the Alliance to seek the support for candidate of a specific party but the Allaince should be concentrating on electing a capable and a strong candidate who has the capacity to defeat President Gayoom. He further said even MDP should not entertain that concept and that the Alliance has no obligation to agree on MDP candidate.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
No decision will be taken without Munavvar’s advice - Anni
Speaking at kalaafaanu School immediately after the release of the preliminary results of MDP presidential Primary Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) who won the presidential primary by a landslide majority said that he will not make any decision with first consulting the party President Dr. Mohamed Munavvar.
Anni who has a comfortable lead in the preliminary results said that he fully supports the exemplary manner and example shown by the other 2 candidates. He also assured the members that he would easily win the forthcoming presidential elections. He further said he has no doubts of Dr. Munavvar’s support and confidence. He also thanked Reeco Moosa Manik for his hard work to complete the constitutional reform. He also thanked and welcomed Maria Ahmed Didi who just won the party chairpersonship.
Addressing members Anni said MDP has now come of age and that the coming November will usher an MDP government.
Speaking at Kalaafaanu School Dr. Munavvar said he was satisfied with the way the elections went and welcomed both Anni and Maria for their success in the elections. He also offered his gratitude to all those who supported him and assured the members his desire to continue with managing the party as its President.
Reeco Moosa Manik who contested in the primary said that he can only sleep properly after removing President Gayoom from power. He thanked Dr. Munavvar and Nasheed (Anni) who both contested in the presidential primary. He welcomed Maria and congratulated her success. Offering his gratitude to all the members who supported him Reeco Moosa Manik called on members to cast their votes in the forthcoming presidential elections in the same manner as they just did.
Both Maria and Nazim who contested in election for party chairpersonship thanked all members who voted for them.
Maria said MDP is now entering a new phase of democracy.
Anni who has a comfortable lead in the preliminary results said that he fully supports the exemplary manner and example shown by the other 2 candidates. He also assured the members that he would easily win the forthcoming presidential elections. He further said he has no doubts of Dr. Munavvar’s support and confidence. He also thanked Reeco Moosa Manik for his hard work to complete the constitutional reform. He also thanked and welcomed Maria Ahmed Didi who just won the party chairpersonship.
Addressing members Anni said MDP has now come of age and that the coming November will usher an MDP government.
Speaking at Kalaafaanu School Dr. Munavvar said he was satisfied with the way the elections went and welcomed both Anni and Maria for their success in the elections. He also offered his gratitude to all those who supported him and assured the members his desire to continue with managing the party as its President.
Reeco Moosa Manik who contested in the primary said that he can only sleep properly after removing President Gayoom from power. He thanked Dr. Munavvar and Nasheed (Anni) who both contested in the presidential primary. He welcomed Maria and congratulated her success. Offering his gratitude to all the members who supported him Reeco Moosa Manik called on members to cast their votes in the forthcoming presidential elections in the same manner as they just did.
Both Maria and Nazim who contested in election for party chairpersonship thanked all members who voted for them.
Maria said MDP is now entering a new phase of democracy.
Mariya is the new Chairperson of MDP
Male' - 02:45 - Mariya has won the MDP chairperson's election and her contender Nazim has congratulated Mariya over the resounding victory she attained.
Anni wins the MDP presidential primary
Male' - 02:51 - Anni thanked his contenders for their professional campaigns and said that their aim had always been to bring democracy. "This is a win for all of us. We are all winners," Anni said in his acceptance speech. Anni also said that he looks forward to working with Dr. Munavvar, who is the President of MDP. He also paid tribute to Reeko Moosa and congratulated him for his efforts to bring democracy to the Maldives. Specifically Anni highlighted Moosa's courageous performances in the parliament. Anni also thanked Gogo Latheef for his services to the party. He also thanked the media for their effort in covering the election and concluded his speech by stating that Gayyoom will be replaced.
Male' - 02:49 - Contenders Dr. Munavvar and Reeko Moosa have conceded defeat gracefully and congratulated the winner, Anni. Both candidates thanked their supporters and all those who participated in the election.
Male' - 02:45 - According to the initial votes counted and exit polls, MDP's presidential primary winner will be Mohamed Nasheed, Anni, the former chairperson of MDP and founding member of the party. After nearly 91 of the ballot boxes counted, Anni has reportedly secured more than 65%, whilst the runner up Dr. Munavvar managed to secure 26% and Moosa secured 9%. These results are the initial count. The official count announced at around 2:00am are as follows: Anni 3275 (69%), Munavvar 718 (21%) and Moosa 528 (10%). The trend is set to continue and as per the official preliminary results, Anni performed extremely well in almost all areas, including Addu Atoll. Official preliminary results are expected within the next few hours according to election officials.
Male' - 02:49 - Contenders Dr. Munavvar and Reeko Moosa have conceded defeat gracefully and congratulated the winner, Anni. Both candidates thanked their supporters and all those who participated in the election.
Male' - 02:45 - According to the initial votes counted and exit polls, MDP's presidential primary winner will be Mohamed Nasheed, Anni, the former chairperson of MDP and founding member of the party. After nearly 91 of the ballot boxes counted, Anni has reportedly secured more than 65%, whilst the runner up Dr. Munavvar managed to secure 26% and Moosa secured 9%. These results are the initial count. The official count announced at around 2:00am are as follows: Anni 3275 (69%), Munavvar 718 (21%) and Moosa 528 (10%). The trend is set to continue and as per the official preliminary results, Anni performed extremely well in almost all areas, including Addu Atoll. Official preliminary results are expected within the next few hours according to election officials.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Counting is continues initial results gives Anni a clear lead
Male' - 22:15 - Counting of the boxes in Male' at Kalaafaanu School has begun. Exit figures indicate that more than 2641 votes were cast there.
Male' - 22:00 - Counting of the votes has begun and preliminary results for some 15 boxes have been announced already. Currently, Anni leads with 411 votes, to Dr. Munavvar 129 and Reeko Moosa 86.
Male' - 22:00 - Counting of the votes has begun and preliminary results for some 15 boxes have been announced already. Currently, Anni leads with 411 votes, to Dr. Munavvar 129 and Reeko Moosa 86.
Preliminary results to be revealed within 18 hours - MDP
According to Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) the preliminary results of the 2 party elections held today (presidential primary election and party chairpersonship election) will be released within 18 hours and final results will be made public within 14 days.
MDP had earlier revealed that 30,000 ballot papers have been printed. According to the party the number of eligible voters for the 2 elections are 20,958 and the number of valid proxy are 238. A total of 81 ballot boxes have been positioned in 80 islands.
“Ballot boxes will be positioned in 6 resorts , 3 industrial sites will also be provided with ballot boxes, 7 ballot boxes for Male’ residents,20 boxes will placed for islanders residing in Male’, total number of ballot boxes will be provided 117 and total number of ballots released so far is 8650” revealed MDP.
MDP informed that in Male’ ballot boxes will be positioned at Kalaafaanu School and that a box for each of the 4 wards of Male’ will placed at Kalaafaanu School. MDP further informed that a box for those members on Special Register of Male’ Municipality will also be placed at Kalaafaanu School in addition a box at Villingili and one box at Hulhumale’ is to be positioned.
According to Dr. Ibrahim Didi the election scheduled to commence at 1400 hours this afternoon would be held in a manner which would be open and transparent. He said the election held at a cost of Rf.400, 000 can challenge the national elections organized by the Elections Commissioner.
When asked by a member of press as to why names of deceased people are included in the eligible voter list, Dr. Didi replied that MDP cannot be blamed as these names were provided by the Commissioner. MDP also revealed that 135 reporters will act as observers. Further MDP informed that white ballot papers will be used for presidential primary elections and yellow will be for party chairperson.
Further MDP informed that white ballot papers will be used for presidential primary elections and yellow will be for party chairperson. MDP presidential primaries are contested by 3 candidates, namely party president Dr. Mohamed Munavvar , Ricco Moosa Manik MP for Laamu Atoll and former chairperson of the party Moahmed Nasheed (Anni). Party Chairpersonship is being contested by Maria Ahmed Didi and Bounty Nazim.
MDP had earlier revealed that 30,000 ballot papers have been printed. According to the party the number of eligible voters for the 2 elections are 20,958 and the number of valid proxy are 238. A total of 81 ballot boxes have been positioned in 80 islands.
“Ballot boxes will be positioned in 6 resorts , 3 industrial sites will also be provided with ballot boxes, 7 ballot boxes for Male’ residents,20 boxes will placed for islanders residing in Male’, total number of ballot boxes will be provided 117 and total number of ballots released so far is 8650” revealed MDP.
MDP informed that in Male’ ballot boxes will be positioned at Kalaafaanu School and that a box for each of the 4 wards of Male’ will placed at Kalaafaanu School. MDP further informed that a box for those members on Special Register of Male’ Municipality will also be placed at Kalaafaanu School in addition a box at Villingili and one box at Hulhumale’ is to be positioned.
According to Dr. Ibrahim Didi the election scheduled to commence at 1400 hours this afternoon would be held in a manner which would be open and transparent. He said the election held at a cost of Rf.400, 000 can challenge the national elections organized by the Elections Commissioner.
When asked by a member of press as to why names of deceased people are included in the eligible voter list, Dr. Didi replied that MDP cannot be blamed as these names were provided by the Commissioner. MDP also revealed that 135 reporters will act as observers. Further MDP informed that white ballot papers will be used for presidential primary elections and yellow will be for party chairperson.
Further MDP informed that white ballot papers will be used for presidential primary elections and yellow will be for party chairperson. MDP presidential primaries are contested by 3 candidates, namely party president Dr. Mohamed Munavvar , Ricco Moosa Manik MP for Laamu Atoll and former chairperson of the party Moahmed Nasheed (Anni). Party Chairpersonship is being contested by Maria Ahmed Didi and Bounty Nazim.
MDP to be restructured to reflect presidential system - Maria
Member of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) parliamentary group as well as MP for Kaafu Atoll, Maria Ahmed Didi, competing to win the MDP Chairpersonship has declared that certain changes will be necessary to the structure of the party due to the adoption of the presidential system of government by the people. She said so while speaking to members of the press at a news conference held yesterday at the newsroom “Fansavees” of Dharubaaruge.
Maria said that there were many tasks that need to be implemented when facing the powerful position of Chairperson of the main opposition party with a strong tradition of internal democracy. She said among the tasks that needs to carried out are the changes to the party structure due to the adoption of the presidential system of government.
“Changes to party structure are necessary due to the adoption of the presidential system of government, changes will come through the party system” said Maria.
Maria said she is contesting party chairpersonship with a strong resolve and determination and what ever the pressure and adverse comments her resolve will not be affected. She further said even if she is not elected, she will always be seen in the front ranks of the party.
Providing her opinion on the proxy votes, Maria said she will welcome proxy votes and that if she does not welcome it, it will be an undemocratic attitude. The other candidate contesting party chairpersonship is party activist Mohamed Nazim.
Maria said that there were many tasks that need to be implemented when facing the powerful position of Chairperson of the main opposition party with a strong tradition of internal democracy. She said among the tasks that needs to carried out are the changes to the party structure due to the adoption of the presidential system of government.
“Changes to party structure are necessary due to the adoption of the presidential system of government, changes will come through the party system” said Maria.
Maria said she is contesting party chairpersonship with a strong resolve and determination and what ever the pressure and adverse comments her resolve will not be affected. She further said even if she is not elected, she will always be seen in the front ranks of the party.
Providing her opinion on the proxy votes, Maria said she will welcome proxy votes and that if she does not welcome it, it will be an undemocratic attitude. The other candidate contesting party chairpersonship is party activist Mohamed Nazim.
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