The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) has secured both seats in the election held to appoint representatives from local councils and Women’s Development Committees (WDC) to the Board of the Local Government Authority (LGA).
In the race for the council representative seat, Ali Ahmed, President of the Faafu Nilandhoo Council (PNC), defeated Ali Zafir, President of the Noonu Manadhoo Council (MDP). Ali Ahmed secured the seat with 312 votes, while Zafir received 229 votes.
For the WDC representative seat, Maryam Zeena, President of the Shaviyani Funadhoo WDC (PNC), won against Maryam Neena, President of the Laamu Gan WDC (MDP). Zeena received 79 votes compared to Neena’s 53 votes.
The election took place amid controversy as RTL ferry services across all routes in the three northern atolls were abruptly cancelled this morning.
A total of 807 individuals were eligible to vote in this election, comprising 625 local councillors and 625 WDC members.
Meanwhile, Kulhudhuffushi City Mayor Mohamed Athif, who contested for the seat reserved for city councils, was elected unopposed as no other candidates came forward.
In August, the People’s Majlis approved the appointment of Aminath Arifa as the board member with expertise in gender equality, and Mohamed Arif as the member with expertise in governance or public administration.
The LGA Board also includes Board President and Minister of Finance Hassan Zareer, Vice President Fathimath Niuma, CEO Mohamed Nimal, and board members Fatimath Zeena Ali, Mohamed Azad, and Azha Zameer.
