Faris: Contesting the election with significant hope of winning

Maldives Reform Movement (MRM)’s leader Ahmed Faris Maumoon, who is contesting the presidential election as an independent candidate, has stated he is entering the presidential race with significant hope of winning. 

Speaking to the press after filing his candidacy form with the Elections Commission – Faris said he is not an individual who works based on estimates. He added that there will be success, if he works honestly and sincerely, to the best of his capability.

“(I) am entering the race with hope to win the whole election by will of God,” he said.

Faris said he has met a great number of people in the past days, and has had the opportunity to talk with approximately a thousand people. Underscoring many of their concerns to be the present structure of the political system, he said his aim was to address all these issues.

“The aim is not to work by targeting a certain person in a certain issue, or work for personal benefit. Want policies. Comprehensive regulations. Empowering important institutions. Empowering the people,” he said.

When asked who he sees as the most challenging candidate, Faris responded by saying he does not know to name a specific candidate in this trajectory as they are all very strong and have huge support.

He was also asked whether he will be working under the guidance of his father, former president Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom if elected, to which replied no comment. However, the presidential candidate added that he will listen to the most experienced and capable experts in the Maldives, adding his running mate was one of them.

Faris picked Dr. Abdul Sattar Yoosuf as his running mate.

Speaking further, Faris said he is contesting the election knowing it is a difficult venture. Nevertheless, he expressed hope for success by sincerely working alongside a great number of people.