The ruling People's National Congress (PNC) has secured 69 seats and the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) six seats ahead of the April 4 local council elections.

The Elections Commission (EC) said the seats were secured from the constituencies with fewer candidates.

According to the EC, 33 councilors were elected without a vote while 49 members were elected to the Women's Development Committee (WDC).

Number of members elected without a vote:

• PNC - 69 seats
• MDP - six seats
• Adhaalath Party - two seats
• Independent - five seats

A total of 621 polling stations will be set up for the elections. EC said 294,937 people are eligible to vote.