The Democrats open candidacy for April 4 council elections

The Democrats have announced that members interested in contesting the upcoming April 4 council elections may now submit their candidacy.

In a statement issued Sunday, the party said its ad hoc committee met with the Elections Commission to discuss procedures and requirements for members seeking to run under the party’s banner. The statement outlines steps for registration and internal vetting.

Members who wish to contest must submit an e-form provided by the party before the end of this month. If multiple candidates express interest in the same seat, a primary election will be held to determine the party’s nominee.

The Elections Commission officially opened nominations for the council elections on Saturday, with the deadline set for 15:30 hrs on February 1.

The Democrats were formed in July 2023 following a split within the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). The rift emerged after the end of the previous administration, marked by growing tensions between former President Mohamed Nasheed and then-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, with Nasheed publicly criticizing the government and alleging corruption.

Led by Nasheed, the new party included senior former MDP figures such as Hassan Latheef and Mohamed Shifaz. However, several founding members have since returned to the MDP, including Hussain Amr Mohamed Rashad and Ali Azim. On June 17, the remaining Democrats also rejoined the MDP.

Notably, some of those members contested the MDP council election primary held last Friday.