The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid has said the party's candidates will win the Hanimaadhoo seats in the upcoming local councils and Women's Development Committee (WDC) elections despite intimidation by the government.

In a video message at the Hanimaadhoo International Airport during his tour of the northern islands for the local council elections, Shahid accused the government of threatening people with dismissals.

The former Foreign Minister said the Hanimaadhoo International Airport is a proud achievement of the MDP administration, but its employees have now been chained to their jobs.

“No matter how many threats are made, the MDP will win the seats in this council this time,” Shahid said.

Shahid was accompanied by MDP candidates for Hanimaadhoo council and WDC, whom he described as "brave youths." Shahid also urged the people of Hanimaadhoo to overcome the fear and come out to save the country.