The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed has called on the authorities to proceed with the Local Government Authority (LGA) board elections as scheduled.
The LGA announced an indefinite postponement of the elections, scheduled for this Saturday, citing incomplete administrative preparations. Nasheed characterized this move as an admission of defeat by the government.
"Postponing the LGA board elections indefinitely is a self-declaration of defeat by the government. The LGA elections must be held on the scheduled date," Nasheed posted on X.
The LGA had opened applications to elect three members to its board: one representing city councillors, one representing island councillors, and one representing the presidents of Women's Development Committees (WDC).
"We wish to inform that the election to select members for the Local Government Authority board from among councillors and WDC presidents, scheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2026, has been postponed indefinitely," the LGA stated in its announcement.
The MDP candidates contesting the board seats are Noonu Manadhoo Council President Ali Zafir and Laamu Gan WDC President Maryam Neena. The ruling People's National Congress (PNC) is fielding Faafu Nilandhoo Council President Ali Ahmed and Shaviyani Funadhoo WDC President Maryam Zeena.
Additionally, Kulhudhuffushi City Mayor Mohamed Athif is the only candidate contesting for the seat reserved for city councils, running unopposed.
The current LGA board includes Board President and Finance Minister Hassan Zareer, Vice President Fatimath Niuma, CEO Mohamed Nimal, and board members Fatimath Zeena Ali, Mohamed Azad, and Azha Zameer.
