MDP alleges influence being exerted to force opposition candidates to withdraw names

The MDP alleged today that the government is attempting to have candidates withdraw their names by contacting those in certain constituencies and offering significant inducements, and further claimed that the Elections Commission (EC) is providing the opportunity for this to occur.

During a news conference held by the opposition party, the spokesperson appointed for the upcoming April election and former Member of Parliament for the Dhidhdhoo constituency, Abdulla Waheed, stated that since an election timeline has yet to be disclosed, the final deadline for withdrawing candidacy remains unknown.

Waheed stated that this lack of transparency provides the government with the space to influence the election, adding that some candidates are being called and asked to withdraw their names in exchange for major offers. He further alleged that information not disclosed by the EC is being shared by the ruling PNC.

The MDP today also repeated its accusation that the PNC has gained access to the EC's data.

"Without disclosing the timeline, even we do not know the final date by which these contesting candidates can withdraw their names. While it is noted that this can be done until the drawing of lots, the Elections Commission did not say on which day that would take place," Waheed said.

"What we are seeing is that this period is being used as a way to provide the government the opportunity to have the names of certain individuals they want withdrawn."

Waheed stated that while the MDP entered this election very well-prepared, the PNC’s objective is to seize the powers held by the citizens. The MDP noted that while the PNC was given the government along with the parliamentary majority, nothing has been achieved for the people during this period.

A total of 2,994 candidates, including those from various parties and independents, are contesting in the Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections scheduled for April 4th. Among them, the highest number of candidates are from the PNC.