MDP primary's permanent candidate list released

The permanent candidates list for MDP's primary in the Local Council and Women's Development Committee (WDC) election has been released.

The opposition party is readying themselves for their primary which is to be held on 16th January.

MDP's candidate list, along with their candidate numbers, of those who will be running in the primary was released yesterday.

92 candidates from 25 islands submitted their names for MDP's primary. 37 candidates from five cities submitted their names as well, bringing the total to 129.

23 candidates submitted their names from the WDC for the MDP ticket, with 8 of them being from Male' and 15 being from islands. Most are competing for the position of Male' Mayor. Former Parliament member Ali Azim is also running against current Mayor of Male' Adam Azim.

The remaining MDP candidates have been granted party tickets without a primary.

The Local Council and WDC elections are set for April 4, 2026. A total of 1,362 positions will be filled across the country, with 681 seats available in both the local councils and the women's committees.

While MDP's primary is to be held on 16th January, the ruling party PNC's primary was held yesterday.