Former ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s candidate, Adam Azim has defeated the government-endorsed candidate in a landslide victory in Saturday’s Malé City Council by-election.

Ruling party’s candidate Azima Shakoor contested against Azim closely in Saturday’s Malé City Council by-election.

Preliminary results show the former CEO of Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) leading the mayoral race with the highest number of votes.

PNC’s Azima trails second and ‘The Democrats’ candidate Mohamed Saif comes third.

Individuals from the capital city of Maldives elected a new mayor of the city during Saturday’s polls, as well as representatives to three additional seats at the council; South-Maafannu seat, Central-Henveiru seat and the South-Henveiru seat.

Polling began at 8am on Saturday and most queues closed by 5pm.

The Elections Commission (EC) revealed that the by-election observed a low voter turnout, which is concerning as every citizen is expected to exercise their right to vote, with the parliamentary polls also around the corner.