President: Can contest solo, but that wouldn’t be in Maldives' best interest

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih states that he would contest the upcoming presidential election solo, without forming a coalition, but that wouldn’t be in the “best interests” of the Maldivian people.

Speaking during a campaign rally in V. Thinadhoo on Monday, President Solih said his team was clear in its goal – building a “safe and happy” Maldives. He said it requires the input of people from all walks of life.

“I believe this can only be accomplished with a government formed with the opinions of many. Our goal is to get things done in accordance with the different opinions of the people,” he said.

President Solih said he had Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) and Adhaalath Party by his side, and would include officials from the parties in decision-making.

He said a coalition government was necessary for a developing nation.

“I can contest alone. But that is not in the best interests of this nation. It is with a coalition that the best path for this nation can be found,” he said.

President Solih said that he made it a point not to sideline islands with small populations when developing the Maldives.

He said he would conduct development projects in Thinadhoo as well.

He said Thinadhoo would have a functioning water and sanitation system ahead of the election.