Nasheed Warns MDP Moving Away from Founding Principles Over Rasmalé Land Sale

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed concern that the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is drifting from its foundational principles, citing a rigid nationalistic mindset and the use of religion as a political tool. In a post on X, Nasheed criticized the party's stance on the government's decision to sell 500 hectares of reclaimed land in Rasmalé to UAE-based Eagle Hills, warning that stirring anger and division could cost the party its traditional support base. He called for greater transparency in the Rasmalé deal, which has caused internal disagreement. The MDP's National Council is set to meet tonight to decide the party's position on the issue, following a proposal backed by over 60 council members.