MDP loses Ukulhas and Rasdhoo strongholds after 18 years
Ukulhas and Rasdhoo have been associated with the MDP in past elections. Party meetings and events have been held on both islands.
Results from Saturday’s Local Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections indicate a change in representation in AA. Ukulhas and Rasdhoo.
According to provisional results, the People’s National Congress (PNC) secured all council and WDC seats in Rasdhoo, the capital of Alif Alif Atoll. In the previous term, most seats were held by members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which had governed the island for several years.
In Ukulhas, the PNC also secured all seats in both the council and the WDC. In previous terms, these seats were held by MDP candidates.
A resident of Rasdhoo said voters had sought changes in representation. “We gave them many opportunities. But show me a single instance of real progress for the island. We have to seek what is best for the advancement of our island,” he said.
Another resident in Ukulhas said public opinion had shifted in recent years. “The people have many concerns. Recently, the public mindset shifted towards seeking an alternative to the MDP. Let’s see what happens next. We are hoping that by changing the political landscape, we can bring progress to the island,” the resident said.
Ukulhas and Rasdhoo have been associated with the MDP in past elections. Party meetings and events have been held on both islands.
In Saturday’s elections, the PNC secured seats across several islands. The MDP retained mayoral positions in Malé and other cities.
The results remain provisional pending completion of the count.
