Airport pledge fallout leads to dramatic drop in PNC turnout in Maavah

Residents of L. Maavah, during the ruling PNC’s recent internal elections, cast only 19 votes, a sharp drop in turnout for an island that has long been considered a stronghold of the party. Residents claim the low turnout reflects frustration over President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s decision not to build the promised airport on the island.

Maavah has historically shown overwhelming support for the government. The island has more than 600 registered PNC members and won all seats in the last council elections. However, only 19 votes were cast in Saturday’s election, indicating a significant decline in support.

The main reason cited by residents is the relocation of the promised airport from Maavah to Isdhoo.

In addition to the airport issue, residents also raised concerns over the rejection of Maavah PNC steering committee member Ahmed Asim’s nomination form for the constituency presidential election, without any explanation. Asim told Sun that the election was conducted under the influence of an unauthorized individual who has no support in Maavah or the constituency.

Asim said Saturday’s election excluded PNC members from the island. “We were excluded. The election was conducted under the influence of someone who had no business in it. My application for the post of constituency president was rejected at the last minute without giving any reason. Because of this, a lot of people did not even go to vote,” he said.

It is learned that the current president of the Maavah constituency is a man from a remote island with no connection to Maavah. He was appointed to the post without any vote and without any support from the constituency.

Asim said he had filed a complaint in early July over the rejection of his application, but the party leadership had not provided an adequate response. He also expressed dissatisfaction with the airport issue.

Maavah residents have already protested against the government’s decision.

In Saturday’s internal elections, Maavah delivered a strong result against the government. Residents say the outcome sends a clear message to the PNC leadership that they will not accept the government’s breach of its promise on the airport issue.

People in Maavah say listening to the community is essential to maintaining their support for the government.