Jumhooree Party (JP)’s leader Qasim Ibrahim’s political advisor Ali Waheed has announced that he is running for the party’s presidency.

In a letter addressed to JP’s secretary general Ahmed Sameer, Ali Waheed stated that he is running for presidency to sincerely take the party to the next step, to ensure equality among the people and to serve the country and its people to the best of his ability.

The former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson, Ali Waheed joined JP in a special ceremony held at Frankfurt, Germany on May 26. When he joined the party, leader Qasim Ibrahim appointed him as his political advisor.

After the announcement, Ali Waheed released his campaign video, highlighting the important pledges.

Ali Waheed, who had previously held many senior posts in parties and also served as a parliament member, is well loved and respected by many.

He previously served as Thoddoo MP, MDP Chairperson, MDP Parliamentary Group’s deputy leader, Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP)’s deputy leader, and at other prestigious positions in the parliament.

Ali Waheed is very active in the political scene and is known for his eloquent speech. He was also the youngest parliament member ever to be elected, and one of the most vocal on pressing issues.

Ali Waheed also played a key role in MDP as its Chairperson during the most difficult time faced by the party. When he resigned from the party, MDP also noted the praiseworthy work he had done for the party, while the party leader Mohamed Nasheed thanked him for his invaluable service for the party.

Meanwhile, JP too described having Ali Waheed in the party as a huge step forward for them.

His other noteworthy leadership positions include being Chairman of New Radiant Sports Club, which has one of the biggest fans following in the country. He was also the first Maldivian to achieve the FA Level 1 and FA Level 2 football coaching license from the United Kingdom (UK)’s Football Association. He was also awarded best coach in the South London Football Network’s last season.

The network described his victory as a journey “from a refugee to become a champion”.