Mayors' message is crystal clear: "There is no room for authoritarianism; the path ahead is to further embolden the Maldives with the golden-yellow of the MDP"
Speaking at the MDP's "Heyvalla Thayyaaru" event, newly elected mayors stated that their recent success in council by-elections proves the public has rejected the government's influence and financial inducements. Highlighting the strong support received across Malé and other cities, the mayors emphasized that the party's ultimate goal is to work collectively to secure a decisive victory in the 2028 presidential election.
"Heyvalla Thayyaaru": Scenes from the event held at Artificial Beach to celebrate the MDP's success in the Local Council and Women's Development Committee elections. | Screen Image | Screen image
Following the results of Saturday’s elections, newly elected mayors have stated that the current focus must be on working together to secure a victory for the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in the 2028 presidential election.
The mayors made these remarks during the "Heyvalla Thayyaaru" ceremony, an event held to celebrate the Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) success in the recent council and Women's Development Committee (WDC) elections.
Speaking at the ceremony, Male’ City Mayor-elect Adam Azim stated that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has proven that the "Yellow Army" cannot be erased from the Maldives. He praised the party for the courage displayed during the election, noting that the MDP continues to grow stronger and more expansive. Azim further attributed the party's success in securing a majority on the Male’ City Council to the tireless efforts of its general members.
"I salute the people of Male' City. You have proven that the 'Golden Yellow' army cannot be erased from this city. When I contested the by-election, I entered alone and faced immense challenges and ridicule. This time, by the grace of God, I enter with 15 out of 17 members. Well done, Male' City," Azim said.
Addu City Mayor and Mayor-elect Ali Nizar stated that the government spent heavily to secure victory in this election. However, the Mayor noted that the PNC has failed to deliver any meaningful progress for Addu City over the past two and a half years. Nizar further asserted that the government’s financial expenditure is solely aimed at winning the 2028 elections. He added that the public is unwilling to grant the PNC opportunities that would result in the people losing their power.
"Given the current circumstances, this election represents the people's decision to reject that deception and save the Maldives. The MDP is the party that advocates for good governance," Nizar said.
Thinadhoo City Mayor Saud Ali stated that the election was won despite numerous challenges. He attributed the victory to the tireless efforts of those dedicated to the reform movement. Saud further noted that Thinadhoo's results demonstrate that the city will not back down in the face of intimidation.
"The change we seek is to work together in unity to ensure an MDP victory in 2028. The 'golden yellow' spirit is visible across the entire Maldives. This government will not be able to hold on for much longer. We are stepping out now to defeat them. God willing, the MDP will secure a landslide victory in 2028. Stay ready," Saud said.
Kulhudhuffushi City Mayor Mohamed Athif has described this victory as a triumph for the Maldivian people. He stated that while President Muizzu may have believed the public could be defeated, the residents of Kulhudhuffushi alone have sent a clear message that they will not bow down to influence, power, or money.
"Kulhudhuffushi has declared that it will not allow MDP's vessel of decentralization to be sunk," he said.
Athif stated that through the council elections, the public has sent a clear message that they will not allow leaders to act solely according to their own whims. He further emphasized the need to harness this momentum to secure a victory in 2028.
