Vote counting begins as voting closes in MDP’s competitive primary

Voting has closed in main opposition MDP’s primary to elect candidates who will contest in April’s Local Council election on the party’s ticket.

The voting in the primary contested by 154 candidates kicked off at 14:30pm this afternoon and closed at 20:00pm tonight.

MDP did not report any unrest during the course of the primary. A large number of MDP members, including the party’s senior officials, cast their votes during the primary, which concluded peacefully.

The largest number of ballot boxes in capital Male’ was placed in Maajedhiyya School, amounting to 18.

Other locations in Male’ where ballot boxes were placed include Iskandar School, Hiriya School, Galolhu School. Meanwhile, the sole ballot box in Vilimale’ was placed in Muheedheen School. The ballot box for central and south Hulhumale’ constituencies was placed in Ghaazee School while the ballot box for north Hulhumale’ school was placed at Kaamil Didi School.

The most anticipated race in Friday’s primary is the Male' mayoral ticket, where incumbent Mayor Adam Azim is competing against Ali Azim, former Central Henveiru MP.