In a surprising turn of events, Maldives Democratic Party's (MDP) candidate, Adam Azim, secured a landslide victory in Male's mayoral elections, dealing a significant blow to President Mohamed Muizzu's People's National Congress.
The election results, with Azim gaining 5,303 votes against Muizzu's candidate Aishath Azima Shakoor's 3,301 votes, are being seen as a potential revival of MDP's political fortunes. However, the victory comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tensions with India.
Muizzu's setback follows his resignation in 2023 to contest presidential elections. The low-turnout election took place amidst a diplomatic row fueled by derogatory comments from three Muizzu government deputy ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The controversy led to calls for an Indian tourist boycott, significant as they constitute the largest visitor group. In response, Muizzu suspended the ministers and pivoted towards strengthening ties with China, securing a $130 million assistance package for developmental projects, primarily focusing on road development in Male.
The President's recent visit to China, overshadowed by strained relations with India, resulted in a $50 million agreement for a tourism zone in Hulhumale and the construction of 30,000 social housing units in Rasmale. However, the trip faced criticism from the EU Election Observation Mission, accusing Muizzu's coalition of using anti-India sentiments and disinformation in the 2023 elections.
In a defiant statement, Muizzu asserted Maldives' sovereignty, stating, "We may be small, but this doesn't give them the license to bully us." The President, known for his pro-China stance, emphasized that the Indian Ocean belongs to all countries situated in it, subtly addressing the ongoing dispute with India.
The political landscape in Maldives seems poised for change with Azim's victory, prompting questions about the future of diplomatic relations and the nation's political direction. As events unfold, the Maldives finds itself navigating not only domestic political shifts but also international complexities.
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