DRP has choosen Running Mate first deputy leader of the party and Atolls Development Minister Ahmed Thasmeen Ali

As speculated, President Gayoom’s party DRP has choosen first deputy leader of the party and Atolls Development Minister Ahmed Thasmeen Ali as the running mate of the party’s presidential candidate, President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

Thasmeen was widely tipped as the most likely leader to be running mate and successor of Gayoom.

Former Finance Minister Gasim Ibrahim who was deputy leader of the party was vying for the powerful post, but did not enjoy such huge support from the party as Thasmeen did, and Gasim was always speculated he will contest president Gayoom for the Presidency.

Thasmeen who is very popular and influential is a very wealthy young leader who holds British Master Degree in Political Science. He is amiable and well respected among colleagues and even opposition. Popularly called Thas by friends, he has sold his businesses to make him qualified for the second highest post of the country.

Thasmeen received 22 votes out of 22 votes in the council meeting tonight which was chaired by party leader Gayoom.

Thasmeen’s elections as running mate would increase support for DRP leader considerably.