MDP Alleges Intimidation of Members Ahead of Party Primary

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has alleged that some of its members are being threatened with dismissal from state-owned companies if they take part in the party’s primary election scheduled for Friday.

Speaking at a news conference today, MDP Election Committee chair Mohammed Falah said a significant number of party members are employed by government-owned companies and have previously faced disciplinary action for participating in party activities. He claimed that some company leaders have warned employees against voting in the primary, threatening punitive measures if they do so.

Falah said the party would set up 66 ballot boxes nationwide, with 31 located in Malé alone. Polling stations designated for voters from the islands had initially been arranged at Kalaafaanu School, but have since been relocated to Majeedhiyya School due to unspecified reasons, he added.

MDP interim chairperson and Hanimaadhoo MP Abdul Gafoor Moosa said the party’s decisions regarding the primary were taken in line with its rules and following consultations with relevant stakeholders.

According to the party, the primary will be held across 42 constituencies. A total of 48 candidates are contesting in city constituencies, while 100 candidates are competing for seats in island constituencies. The candidates are seeking the party’s ticket for both local council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) positions.

The MDP is preparing to conduct its primary on Friday. The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), the country’s largest political party, held its own primary on 27 last month.