Opposition DRP wins local polls

The main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party won the local polls bagging 502 seats as against the ruling Maldivian Democractic Party’s 375 seats.

Accordingly, the DRP won 91 island councils and 10 atoll councils and the MDP won 61 island councils, 4 atoll councils and 88 of percent of the city council seats, according to the Elections Commission’s preliminary results. 

Independents emerged a considerable force winning 160 seats, 15 island councils and one atoll council (Dhaalu).

The Adhaalath Party, a coalition of the government came forth in the race while rest of the seats were won by the Jumhoory, People’s Alliance led by Abdulla Yamin, Dhivehi Qaumee Party and the Gaumee Iththihaad Party led by the Vice President.

The official results of local elections will be announced within two weeks, according to the EC. 

Both DRP and also MDP claimed victory, after the preliminary results were announced, according to media reports. 

Despite the loss, the ruling party having won four strategic atolls, Male’ Addu, Kulhudhufushi and Thinadhoo found cause celebrations. 

The party said it still has hopes of securing 60 percent of the vote in the 2013 presidential vote. 

Following the victory a jubilant Opposition Leader Thasmeen Ali told media that there is an urgent need to make elected candidates aware of their new mandates, since many are not adequately informed of it. 

A celebration rally called ‘Welcome to blue Maldives’ was held by former President Addul Gayoom’s camp in the DRP. (Asian Tribune)