The Elections Commission (EC) has officially confirmed that only the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) and the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have submitted nominations to contest the upcoming Hithadhoo North by-election.

Ahmed Saeed, the current councilor for the Mulekede constituency, will represent the PNC. Saeed was awarded the ticket after Mohamed Sinan, who won the party’s primary, withdrew from the race. Representing the MDP is Abdulla Sodiq, the former Mayor of Addu City.

The Hithadhoo North parliamentary seat became vacant following a Supreme Court ruling that disqualified the incumbent member, Mohamed Sinan, due to a proven debt. The court determined that Sinan no longer met the constitutional requirements to hold a seat in the People’s Majlis.

The Elections Commission had initially set a deadline of April 19 for candidate submissions but later extended it to 3:00 PM on May 2. The by-election is scheduled to take place on June 6, with voting hours set from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.