Multiple candidates have emerged as contenders in the upcoming Malé City mayoral by-election, with key political parties making their selections. 

For the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), former MTCC CEO Adam Azim has been confirmed as the party’s candidate for the mayoral by-election, securing his position without facing a primary challenge. 

This confirmation followed the expiration of MDP’s deadline for candidate applications for the by-election. Only one candidate applied for each of the four Malé City council seats that are open for by-election, leading to their automatic selection as the party’s candidates. 

The other MDP candidates include Ahmed Rishwan Rasheed, who will compete for the Central Henveiru seat, Hawwa Nil’ha for the South Henveiru seat, and Ahmed Imran for the South Machchangolhi seat.

Meanwhile, the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and People’s National Congress (PNC) coalition has initiated the nominations process for their joint primaries. These primaries will determine the candidates to contest the Malé mayor position and three council member seats.  The application window for the primaries is open from 30 November to 4 December, and the primary itself is scheduled for 9 December. Eligibility to vote in the primaries extends to party members who joined before 1 December.

The by-election for the Malé City council is scheduled for 13 January 2024. The mayoral vacancy occurred when President Dr Mohamed Muizzu resigned to assume the presidency on 17 November, while the other council seats became vacant as councilors stepped down to assumed positions in the new administration.