In a council meeting held on Monday, Jumhooree Party (JP) made pivotal decisions regarding its future strategies and potential collaborations, following its considerable loss at September’s Presidential Elections.
The meeting, chaired by JP leader Qasim Ibrahim at the party headquarters M. Kunooz, primarily focused on the party’s approach to the upcoming parliamentary elections.
The council agreed to establish a committee to explore potential alliances with other political parties. However, the identities of these parties were not disclosed. This committee, comprising key figures such as Kendhoo MP Ali Hussain, party leader Qasim Ibrahim, former transport minister Aishath Nahula, and others, will lead formal discussions with the unidentified parties.
A contentious issue that emerged during the meeting was a proposal reportedly made by Qasim Ibrahim regarding the dissolution of JP and merging its members with the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC). This suggestion was met with resistance from the majority of council members, leading to its rejection. JP spokesperson Ali Solih clarified that while the proposal was interpreted as a potential dissolution, it was not formally submitted for debate.
Qasim Ibrahim, who had earlier contested in the presidential election and only finish in fifth place, reportedly stated that he no longer harbours further political ambitions and is leading the party for the sake of its members. The meeting’s outcome indicates JP’s continued independence and its strategic move towards forming alliances rather than dissolving or merging with other parties.
The ruling PPM-PNC coalition and the opposition MDP have scheduled their internal primaries in anticipation of the parliamentary elections slated for April. JP’s decision at this juncture is crucial, considering its historical influence in backing administrations that have come to power in recent years.