Local Council Elections 2026 and referendum vote
Vote counting is underway across the country after the elections for local councils, Women's Development Committees (WDCs) and referendum on a constitutional amendment.
The Elections Commission (EC) said the ballot for the local councils will be counted first, followed by the WDC votes and the referendum.
Voting continued from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm today and turnout is predicted at more than 70 percent. A total of 294,937 people were eligible to vote.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed urged the Maldives to prioritize selling assets for immediate liquidity rather than long-term projects like the $20 billion Rasmalé development. He argued the UAE-backed waterfront deal will not provide the urgent cash flow needed to resolve the nation's current financial crisis.
Maldives Police are seeking charges against six men for assaulting officers during a drug search in Maafushi. Five suspects remain in custody, while one was released by the court. Authorities have also appealed the release of a seventh individual involved in the August incident.
The Maldives government awarded the $20 billion Rasmalé project to UAE developer Eagle Hills without tax concessions or exemptions. All business activities will follow national tax laws, with payments processed through local banks. The state expects over $11 billion in revenue from sales fees and commercial revenue sharing.
The Maldives government signed a $20 billion deal with Dubai’s Eagle Hills to develop a massive integrated zone in Rasmalé. While the project promises 54,000 jobs and housing, officials have withheld specific details regarding the land size, valuation, and lease terms. The area is expected to operate as a special economic township.
The Maldivian government has partnered with UAE-based Eagle Hills to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé using a contractor financing model. This agreement follows a massive $20 billion deal for the firm to develop Rasmalé. The project will feature luxury residences and a world-class marina without impacting existing housing plans.
The Australia Maldives Friendship Association successfully completed its first Junior Lifeguard Program pilot in Thulusdhoo and Fuvahmulah. The initiative trained youth in water safety and rescue skills to enhance maritime security. AMFA plans to expand the program across the Maldives by 2027 through partnerships with local councils.
A private company has been awarded a MVR 20 million project to build the Maldives' first international-standard bowling arena in Hulhumale'. The two-story facility aims to host global competitions, though the direct award process lacks an official statement. This project is part of a broader plan to develop world-class sports infrastructure.
Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox
