Maldives gets new president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Abdulla Yameen concedes defeat.
With flags raised high and dancing on the streets, Maldives cheers for its new President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who defeated Abdulla Yameen in the 2018 presidential election to claim the title. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih won the elections with 134,616 votes. He registered the victory with the backing of a united opposition trying to oust Abdulla Yameen. His party struggled for visibility with the electorate and the media, but the outcome turned out to be favourable. Abdulla Yameen on Monday conceded defeat in elections, easing fears of a fresh political crisis in Maldives. The Indian External Affairs Ministry called for deepening country's partnership and ties with Maldives with a change in the leadership. "This election marks not only the triumph of democratic forces in the Maldives, but also reflects the firm commitment to the values of democracy and the rule of law," the statement said.
Here are 5 facts about new Maldives' President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih:
Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was first elected to the Parliament in 1994 at the age of 30.
The 54-year-old Opposition leader belongs to Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and has played a major role in its formation.
He also led the Maldives Political Reform Movement from 2003 until 2008. This movement led to the adoption of a new modern constitution and multi-party democracy for the first time in the country's history.
Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is one of the closest friends of former President Mohamed Nasheed, who was convicted in 2015 on terror charges and sentenced to 13 years in jail.
Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is one of 13 children. He is married and has two children.
Post a comment