Maldives Election: India and China Monitor Closely as Maldives Votes in Parliamentary Elections

Mohamed Muizzu participated in the parliamentary election in the Maldives, which saw over 2.8 lakh people voting to elect 93 members of the Maldivian parliament, known as Majlis, for a five-year term. It’s important to note that this election was not for the President. Despite Muizzu’s current position remaining secure, the election results will determine the political strength he has to push forward policies.

The Maldivian Democratic Party, led by Muizzu’s pro-India predecessor Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, dominates the Majlis with 41 members, which has stalled Muizzu’s policy plans, especially those with an anti-India stance. Muizzu is known for his outreach to China and has openly expressed his anti-India position in the past, with a promise to send back Indian troops. However, he has also acknowledged India’s financial support to Male and spoken about India continuing to be the Maldives’ closest ally.

The outcome of the election is expected to be close, possibly leading to a split in the House and hindering any party from gaining a majority due to divisions in major political forces, including Muizzu’s People’s National Congress. Amidst the tight political landscape, questions about potential corruption in major projects involving Chinese companies have also surfaced, adding additional complexity to the election. The results of the election in the Maldives are anticipated to be known later today.