President: Jabir's support will make for easier election victory

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has described Kaashidhoo MP Abdulla Jabir as a leader of the youth, adding that his decision to join the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will make for an easier victory in the upcoming presidential election.

Jabir signed for MDP in a ceremony at the Salt Café in Male’ on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters after the signing, President Solih said that Jabir’s decision to rejoin MDP comes at an opportune time.

President Solih thanked Jabir for his support for his presidential campaign in 2018, and expressed confidence he will contribute to his re-election campaign again this year.

“I have no doubt he will contribute to the securing a victory in the upcoming presidential election,” he said.

President Solih said he and Jabir had worked closely together at the Parliament.

“We have done a lot of work together during my time at the Parliament. I can safely say based on my experience that Jabir will secure the support of many if he comes out with that energy, that passion,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jabir told reporters that he had never been “far from MDP”.

He said he decided to rejoin MDP because he wants to see President Solih get re-elected for a second term, and to ensure that he does.

Jabir re-joined MDP in response to an invitation by the party’s chairperson Fayyaz Ismail.

It marks his fourth time joining MDP.