Ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) has secured a large number of seats in the upcoming local council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections uncontested.
Elections Commission (EC) announced on Sunday that PNC has won a total of 69 seats by the end of the candidacy period, either because no other candidates contested these seats or some candidates withdrew their nominations.
In this regard, PNC won 28 council seats uncontested, marking a significant win. This includes the presidency of the island councils of HA. Utheemu, HA. Baarah, AA. Himandhoo, ADh. Kunburudhoo, ADh. Mandhoo, and ADh. Dhidhdhoo. The ruling party also won member seats in various island councils, including seats allocated for women.
In contrast, main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) won only one seat uncontested: the presidency of the AA. Bodufolhudhoo Council.
Meanwhile, Adhaalath Party won a member seat in R. Kinolhas Council uncontested. Three independent candidates also won their seats uncontested.
Ruling PNC also secured majority of the uncontested seats in WDCs, accounting for 41 seats. MDP secured five seats, Adhaalath Party one and independent candidates two.
For the elections set for April 4th, a total of 2,962 candidates are now in the race after accounting for withdrawals. The draw to determine the order of candidates’ names on the ballot paper was conducted last week.
While the government has won many seats uncontested, the opposition MDP alleges that it is offering incentives to opposition candidates to withdraw, claiming that bribes, including money and job offers, are being made.