The chair of the ruling party’s branch in Gaadhiffushi island in Thaa atoll has joined with the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party, along with 50 other individuals.

Musthafa Adam had handed his own and the membership forms of the other individuals to MDP’s deputy chair Mohamed Shifaz on Monday. Adam said most of the other 50 people include members of the ruling party as well.

He further said that he decided to join MDP after having seen how it is the most active on the island, and because it takes a keen interest in the improving the conditions of the people.

Three of the island’s council seats were won by the candidates from the MDP, in the local council elections held in May.