Malé, Maldives – The Democrats party has announced its decision to independently contest the upcoming Local Council Elections and Women’s Development Committees elections, reversing a previous resolution to dissolve and merge with the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

This development follows the unsuccessful performance of former Democrats members in recent MDP primaries. The party confirmed in a statement released this evening that opportunities to contest the Local Council Elections and Women’s Development Committee elections on its ticket are now open.

Background to the Decision

The Democrats party was established in 2023 by senior members who had departed from the MDP following internal disputes. In June, the party had passed a resolution to dissolve itself and rejoin the MDP, with the stated aim of forming a strong opposition alliance ahead of the council elections.

Subsequently, individuals formerly affiliated with the Democrats contested the MDP’s primary elections for the Local Council Elections. However, these candidates faced defeat in the primaries.

Election Candidacy

The party’s latest statement indicates a pivot back to an independent electoral strategy. The opportunity to apply for candidacy for the Local Council Elections on the Democrats’ ticket will remain open until the end of next month. Aspiring candidates are required to submit their applications digitally via the Elections Commission’s portal.