Fayyaz: Do not believe Inthi can work alongside this government

Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail, who is contesting for the post of ruling Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) chairperson post, has stated that he does not believe his opponent, North Maafannu MP Imthiyaz Fahumy (Inthi) can work alongside the current administration.

Speaking during the debate session hosted by Sangu TV on Thursday night between the two candidates – Fayyaz said that he believes Inthi would be unable to work alongside the current administration based on the remarks Inthi has in the course of his campaign. He added that the party can only flourish by working alongside the government.

“(I) am saying this extremely confidently, I would work alongside the government, and defend the government in order to strengthen this party. Being well aware of political rules – by doing things in line with practices followed in the particular country in this regard,” he had said.

Critiquing remarks made by the Inthi during the debate – Fayyaz expressed concern over Inthi pretending to be ‘clueless’ over political matters. Noting that an administratively effective individual is required for MDP’s chairperson post – Fayyaz said that Inthi lacked such experience.

Responding to this, Inthi pointed out that Fayyaz had not held a constituency meetings despite being MDP’s Gan constituency president.

“I do not see the talent of capableness. Within the past four years, MDP’s internal Economic Committee chairperson has not conducted a single meeting,” he added.

During the debate, Fayyaz was posed with the question whether he would try to expel MDP’s Leader, Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed from the party should he be elected as the chairperson. In response, Fayyaz stressed that Nasheed is not a little figure. Describing the topic as lowly, Fayyaz said that expulsion of Nasheed would adversely impact the whole party.

The election to select a chairperson of MDP for a term of five years will take place tomorrow.

Heated exchanges have been witnessed between the candidates as the election nears.

Some believe the election is also a competition between President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Nasheed. In this regard, Fayyaz is backed by supporters of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and his policies whilst Inthi is backed by supporters of Nasheed and his policies.