MDP will win majority of councils: Nasheed

Former president and opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed has said that his Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will the majority of councils, in the Local Council Election held yesterday. Counting of ballots for the nation-wide election is ongoing.

Speaking to the press after the end of voting in Dharubaaruge last night, Nasheed said: “From what we see now, from the 2462 seats I have just mentioned, MDP will win a clear majority . The party is competing for 901 seats. Or rather 900 seats. We believe from these 900 seats, God willing, MDP will win 700 seats,” Nasheed said.

He said the people of Maldives still want to see a MDP government. The party will win the populous areas in the country in this Local Council Election, Nasheed said.

“People in Maldives still wish for a MDP government, to see the Maldives be led under a MDP philosophy. I would like to tell the Maldivian people, do not be disheartened. God willing, we will take charge of the government very soon,” the opposition leader said.

When asked what he means by “take charge of the government”, Nasheed replied: “The law says [a party can] govern the country if it gains the people’s majority and support. You must know, there are numerous ways to legally change the government. Especially through the parliament, this can be done,” Nasheed said.

Nasheed also said the party will emulate its predicted local council election victory in the parliamentary election. Preliminary results of the Local Council Election is expected today.