No room for doubt on integrity: Azima

Former Attorney General and mayoral candidate of the Progressive Party of Maldives/People's National Congress (PPM/PNC) Coalition, Azima Shakoor, has assured that no one can question her integrity.

She made these remarks during her campaign rally on Tuesday evening, January 2, 2024.

In her speech, Azima assured that she served with full integrity while upholding professional and ethical standards in each of her previous government roles.

"After working with three previous administrations, I am beginning my work with the fourth, and no one can question my loyalty and integrity. In fact, I won't give anyone that opportunity either, and neither have I given that chance to anyone so far," Azima said.

At the rally, Azima said that her decision to run for mayor was to ensure the realization of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's vision for the Greater Malé region and the entire country.

She promised to work with the current administration with renewed spirit and commitment, and asserted that attempts to divide the coalition were futile.

"The most important trait of mine is that I remain steadfast on my principles, and it is with that steadfastness I assure that my allegiance is with President Muizzu, which won't alter, no matter how many attempts are made to change it," she asserted.

"No matter how many attacks are directed at me or my daughter because of this, no one can deter me. I have proven my integrity and caliber to the nation. The more you direct personal attacks at me, the more I would become headstrong, which everyone would agree to, and my determination would become stronger."

She further said that the choice in front of Malé citizens was about appointing a leader who would bring positive changes to the city.

The capital city's mayoral position became vacant after its previous mayor, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, was elected as the President of the Maldives. Besides President Muizzu, a few members of Malé City Council were appointed to various government roles, subsequently vacating their council seats.

The Elections Commission (EC) earlier announced the council's by-election on January 14, 2024, to elect the mayor along with the members for the vacant roles.