Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s breakaway faction of the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) has announced their decision to contest for 24 constituencies in the approaching Parliamentary Election.

MRM had previously decided to contest for 32 constituencies, however, they had announced that they will not be fielding candidates for 11 constituencies.

The coalition partner also revealed that they will be granting tickets to experienced and educated candidates.

The 24 constituencies MRM will be contesting for are, north-Henveiru, south-Galolhu, north-Mahchangoalhi, south-Mahchangoalhi, west-Maafannu, mid-Maafannu, south-Maafannu, Villimale, Kelaa, Nolhivaram, Komandoo, Thulhaadhoo, Thulusdhoo, Kaafu Guraidhoo, Dhiggaru, Mulak, Nilandhoo, Thaa Guraidhoo, Isdhoo, Fonadhoo, Maavashu, north-Thinadhoo, Gadhdhoo and north-Hithadhoo constituencies.

The 11 constituencies for which MRM has decided not to contest are, Hulhumale, mid-Mahchangoalhi, Dhihdhoo, Hanimaadhoo, Makunudhoo, Maduvvari, Maamigili, Thimarafushi, south-Thinadhoo and north-Fuvahmulah constituencies.

The coalition partner further asks all who wish to contest through the party to step forth before 6 February.

This comes at a time Gayoom has announced his intention to form a new political party under the name Maldives Reform Movement (MRM).