The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is in the final stages of preparation for its parliamentary primaries slated for Saturday. The primaries will see 149 candidates competing for votes across 40 constituencies.
The MDP reaffirmed its intention to field candidates for all 93 seats in the upcoming parliamentary election. To date, 48 candidates have secured uncontested party tickets for the parliamentary elections scheduled for 17 March.
Despite lacking primary contests in five constituencies—Felidhoo, Nilandhoo, Eydhafushi, Thimarafushi, and North Fuvahmulah—the MDP reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring full representation in the parliamentary elections. Mohamed Falah, Member of Parliament for West Maafannu and chairman of the MDP’s elections committee, confirmed the party’s intent to contest all parliamentary seats. He expressed confidence that candidates would emerge for the currently unrepresented constituencies.
Falah also refuted speculation that the MDP might cede these constituencies to the Adhaalath Party or any other coalition partner from the previous MDP-led administration.
Among the candidates who have recently secured party tickets are two incumbent lawmakers: Yasir Abdul Latheef, MP for North Kulhudhuffushi, and Abdulla Waheed, MP for Dhidhdhoo. They will be seeking re-election in their constituencies.
Joining them is Ifham Hussain, a former State Minister at the Ministry of Gender, Family, and Social Services under the previous MDP administration. She will be contesting the North Maafannu constituency.
For Saturday’s primaries, voting will take place across 95 islands and Malé City, where 27 ballot boxes will be placed. In total, 122 ballot boxes will be placed nationwide. According to the party, 25,325 party members are eligible to cast their votes in the primaries for the 40 open constituencies.