The preliminary election results have undoubtedly shaken the political landscape in the Maldives. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, representing the People’s National Congress (PNC)/Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), has delivered a significant upset, clinching 45.1% of the vote, equivalent to 100,604 ballots.
In contrast, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who was widely expected to secure a second term, fell behind with 38.2% of the vote, tallying 85,227 ballots. The magnitude of this political upset cannot be overstated, leaving President Solih’s camp stunned.
The final preliminary results also revealed that Ilyas Labeeb, representing The Democrats, secured the third position with 6.9% of the vote, gathering 15,469 votes. Umar Naseer, running as an independent candidate, claimed the fourth spot with 2.8% support, amassing 6,293 votes. The experienced Jumhooree Party Leader and Candidate, Qasim Ibrahim, garnered 2.4% of the vote, totaling 5,464 ballots.
Independent candidate Faris Maumoon followed in sixth place with 1.3% support, securing 2,996 votes. Mohamed Nazim from the Maldives National Party (MNP) landed in seventh place, with 0.8% support and 1,870 ballots in his favor. Independent candidate Hassan Zameel concluded the preliminary results with 0.2% support, amassing 345 votes.
With all 574 vote boxes counted, the nation is now poised for a runoff election scheduled for the 30th of September. Dr. Muizzu, who emerged as the clear favorite, will face President Solih once more in a contest that has taken an unexpected turn.
This runoff election is set to be a pivotal moment in Maldivian politics, as voters revisit their choices and reassess the candidates in the wake of these startling preliminary results. It remains to be seen how each candidate will adapt their strategies in this political showdown.
