Former Youth Minister Ahmed Mahloof said on Monday night that the reasons behind his decision to resign from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) would be evident to “those who need to know,” stressing that he does not wish to voice grievances publicly.
Mahloof, who had distanced himself from party activities for several months, formally announced his departure from MDP today. The move has stirred speculation and drawn criticism both from within the party and among the wider public.
In a Facebook post, Mahloof wrote that leaving the party was not an easy choice, but insisted that the rationale would be clear to certain figures within MDP. He had stepped back from party work after initially declaring his candidacy for Malé Mayor on an MDP ticket in the most recent election, later withdrawing from the race.
Mahloof expressed regret if his decision caused disappointment, adding that he hopes it will not affect personal friendships. “It has been two years since I last spoke on a political podium, on television, or took part in political work. I thank those who welcomed my decision today, and I apologize to those who cannot accept it,” he said.
He added that much of the criticism is coming from those who had previously worked hardest to unseat the MDP government. “To those who saw me as right yesterday, I have become wrong today,” he wrote, also remarking that no political party fully adheres to a fixed policy, and no leader remains tied to a single ideology.
Mahloof also noted that he was honoured to serve in the cabinet during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
He joined MDP after leaving the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), where he had been elected to parliament, citing differences with then President Abdulla Yameen. Mahloof had originally entered politics through the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), under former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.
While Mahloof has not disclosed his next political move, he remains active in sports related work.
