MP Nasheed can contribute greatly to increasing PPM

President of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has said that Kulhudhuffushi MP Mohamed Nasheed can contribute greatly to increasing PPM’s popularity, and achieving the party’s political goals.

Gayoom said this in his speech to congratulate Nasheed upon joining PPM today.

“I believe that Mohamed Nasheed can contribute greatly to increasing PPM’s popularity, increasing party membership, and achieving the party’s political goals,” said Gayoom.

Gayoom noted that Nasheed is a prominent lawyer who has provided valuable services to the parliament and the government, and that he has also served as a minister in the past “with sincerity and prudence”.

Nasheed left Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), a faction of which formed PPM, to compete as an independent candidate in the parliamentary election in 2009.

“One thing I realised as an independent MP is that government officials don’t see you as someone who might assist the government. It’s the same with the opposition. It’s neither here nor there,” he said.

Nasheed said that Maldivians are now acquainted with the idea of political parties, and highlighted the importance, as an MP, of being affiliated with a political party.

“I’ve been saying lately, that some roads are not to be treaded alone. On some roads we should walk in groups. I’ve tested walking alone. People are now positive about parties,” he said.

Nasheed said that he will try to win PPM’s ticket to compete in the parliamentary election, and if successful in the election, continue to provide legal advice and serve as a parliamentarian.