Gaumee Itthihaad, also known as the National Unity Party or GIP, is headed by Dr. Mohammed Waheed Hassan, former President of Maldives, first Vice President of Maldives. GIP is a moderate party that was part of the coalition of former ruling party for the Republic of Maldives. Under the coalition agreement with the Maldivian Democratic Party, GIP were awarded three seats in the cabinet; the Fisheries Ministry, the Education Ministry, and the Ministry for Economic Development and Trade.