Maldives headed for key polls as political landscape remains fragmented.
A year after a change of guard in Maldives‘ presidency, crucial parliamentary elections will be held on Sunday, to determine the shape of the legislature amid ongoing political flux in the island nation.
Incumbent President Mohamed Muizzu, who defeated Ibrahim Solih on an anti-India plank last year, seeks stronger control over the People’s Majlis, where Solih’s MDP currently holds sway.
However, the political scene has further splintered since with at least four major blocs emerging besides smaller forces. MDP itself has seen defections while former autocratic leader Abdulla Yameen, recently freed from a graft sentence, has formed a new front.
Over 2.84 lakh citizens will vote to elect representatives from 368 candidates across 93 seats and overseas constituencies. The polls earlier deferred by the MDP-led legislature are crucial for Muizzu’s policymaking abilities going forward.
In a departure from last year’s focus on foreign relations, campaigning has revolved more around citizens’ economic stress, jobs, and development needs in atolls. Recent local election results pointing to MDP’s strongholds have added to uncertainties over the outcome.
Observers say the vote will offer insights into the ongoing political flux and jockeying in the island nation, which saw competitive elections and power transfers last decade after emerging from its autocratic past.
