Retired Major General Moosa Ali Jaleel has decided to contest the race for the mayor of Male' city.

But it is unclear whether he plans to contest on a party ticket or as an independent candidate.

There are two candidates campaining for the mayoral ticket of opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). They are incumbent Mayor Adam Azim and former MP Ali Azim.

The ruling People's National Congress (PNC) has not yet officially announced its candidate for the mayoral post.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu conferred the Order of Military Honour upon Moosa Ali Jaleel on November 3 last year.

According to the President's Office, it recognises his service to national security and significant contributions to safeguarding the sovereignty of the Maldives.