Sinan withdraws from by-election to give opportunity to new candidate

Apr 29, 2026, 1:41 PM
Former Hithadhoo North MP Mohamed Sinan.

Former Hithadhoo North MP Mohamed Sinan.

Recently disqualified MP for Hithadhoo North, Mohamed Sinan, has decided to withdraw from the upcoming by-election, stating that the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) stands a better chance of securing the seat by fielding a new candidate.

Sinan’s decision comes after he had already contested and won the PNC primary, securing the party’s ticket for the race.

In a social media post, Sinan expressed his sincere gratitude to all party members who supported and voted for him in the internal primary. He also noted that the party’s President and leadership had congratulated him on his victory following the fair conduct of the primary.

However, Sinan explained that his decision to withdraw followed three days of consultations with constituents. He emphasized that he chose to step aside because he believes the party’s path to victory would be most effective if a new face were given the opportunity.

Despite his withdrawal, Sinan assured that he remains fully committed to the effort to secure the Hithadhoo North seat for the PNC. He pledged to play an active and leading role in campaigning for the new candidate.

Sinan confirmed that he has officially communicated his decision to the party’s President and leadership. He added that the leadership has accepted and respected his choice.

Sinan lost his seat in the People’s Majlis following a Supreme Court ruling on April 12, 2026. The court determined he no longer met the constitutional requirements due to his failure to settle a proven debt in accordance with a court judgment.

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