In a closely-watched Maldivian election, Mohamed Muizzu, representing the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), emerged victorious in the presidential runoff after the first round failed to produce a clear winner. Muizzu secured over 53 percent of the vote, defeating incumbent president Ibrahim Solih. Below, we break down the election results, delve into Muizzu’s political background, and explore the implications of this outcome.
Election Results:
– In the initial round of voting, Muizzu led with around 46 percent, while Ibrahim Solih trailed with 39 percent.
– The runoff election solidified Muizzu’s lead with more than 53 percent, according to local media sources who tallied results from all 586 ballot boxes.
– President Ibrahim Solih gracefully conceded and congratulated Muizzu.
Muizzu’s Pro-China Stance:
Mohamed Muizzu is noted for his ‘pro-China’ stance, which originates from substantial Chinese loans received during the previous PPM government’s tenure. These loans have fostered closer economic ties, including various infrastructure projects and investments.
Muizzu’s Background:
Currently serving as the mayor of Male, the capital city, Muizzu is a well-educated leader holding a doctorate in civil engineering from the University of Leeds, UK. He previously served as Minister of Housing in former President Abdulla Yameen’s cabinet.
Call for Former President’s Release:
In his post-election statement at his party’s headquarters, President-elect Muizzu expressed gratitude to his supporters and urged the government to release former President Abdulla Yameen, who is currently serving an 11-year jail sentence on a corruption conviction.
Historical Significance:
Muizzu’s victory is historically significant, marking the first time since the Maldives’ inaugural multi-party elections in 2008 that Maldivians have opted for an authoritarian challenger over a liberal democratic government. This represents a substantial shift in the country’s political landscape and its foreign policy orientation, particularly with regard to China.
Reversal of Fortunes:
This election result represents a stark reversal of fortunes for President Ibrahim Solih, who had won the previous election in 2018 by a landslide. His victory in 2018 was driven by public anger over human rights abuses and corruption under his predecessor’s administration.
