Lost PPM/PNC Primaries, running as Independent candidates

Some candidates who participated in and lost in the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM)/ People's National Congress (PNC) coalition's parliamentary primaries have submitted candidacy forms to the Elections Commission to run as independent candidates instead.

The largest parliamentary primaries were held by the ruling coalition, with 283 candidates competing for tickets in 73 constituencies. Although some of the losing candidates decided to back the winners, some left the coalition and decided to run for parliament as independents by themselves.

Anara Naeem, who contested for the Huraa constituency ticket, faced defeat in the primaries. She has since announced that, in compliance with the wishes of many constituents, she will be competing for the constituency in the parliamentary elections as an independent candidate. Her announcement was seen in a video of a gathering in Himmafushi where people had gathered to greet her on arrival. Himmafushi is also part of the Huraa constituency.

Former Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon also did not succeed in the PPM/PNC primaries. The ticket for the constituency she competed in went to Shaneez Hashim (Shaanko) with 240 votes to Dunya's 70.

"In accordance with the requests of many individuals from Hulhumale' South, I have submitted the form to run as an independent candidate in the the Parliamentary Elections 2024. I will remain steadfast in serving the people," Dunya posted on X.

Nabeel Zameer, seen to be an active participant in PPM demonstrations over the years, also decided to run as an independent candidate after losing in the primaries. Although he is officially running as an independent, unofficial claims are that he is backed by former President Abdulla Yameen.

Ahmed Ibrahim Fulhu, who ran for the Funadhoo constituency ticket, is also said to be backed by former President Yameen. He, too, is running as an independent after not succeeding in the primaries.

Reports indicate that 59 candidates backed by former President Yameen are running for parliament this year.

PPM/PNC has candidates competing in all except 4 of the total 93 constituencies. Party leader President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed confidence that the coalition will win at least 62 seats.

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) held primaries for 40 constituencies. So far, it has not been learned that any of the losing candidates are running independently. However, Abdulla Jabir, whose ticket the party withdrew after he was dismissed from the party for disciplinary issues, has submitted a candidacy form to run as an independent candidate.

MDP is presenting candidates for 82 constituencies.