MDA: Decision to back same‑day elections driven by economic concerns, not politics

Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) Vice President Mohamed Abbas says the party decided to support holding the presidential and parliamentary elections on the same day in the national interest.

The MDA announced on Tuesday that it supports merging the two elections. Speaking on SSTV’s Baaru Hathareh programme on Wednesday, Abbas said the decision was not politically motivated, but based on the country’s economic situation and the wider interests of the public.

“The MDA’s decision to hold the two elections on the same day is not political. The MDA President and the entire party leadership believe that holding both elections on the same day is the best option for the country,” Abbas said.

He said the MDP opposes the proposal for political reasons, while the ruling PNC supports it for political reasons. Abbas said the MDA’s position is different, arguing that combining the elections could save MVR 80–100 million, which could instead be used to provide essential public services.

“It is the best way forward for the country,” he said.

Abbas added that Maldives has long spent more than it earns, relying heavily on loans. “This year alone, we have to pay about USD 1 billion. That USD 1 billion is being paid by taking large loans at 13 or 15 percent interest,” he said.

Despite the high level of borrowing, Abbas said many basic services remain inadequate, which is why the MDA supports any measure that reduces state expenditure.

He also noted that MDA President Ahmed Siyam Mohamed is among the country’s largest taxpayers and has strong credibility with local and international banks. Therefore, Abbas said, the party believes every decision must prioritise national stability, public welfare and economic sustainability.

Parliament has approved holding the two elections on the same day. However, the Constitution requires a public vote to bring such a change. The government has therefore decided to hold a referendum alongside the local council elections on 4 April.

The ruling PNC, MDA and JP support merging the elections, while the opposition MDP has voiced strong objections.