Main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has withdrawn support for its parliamentary candidate for North-Thinadhoo constituency, over domestic violence allegations.

The party's deputy secretary general Afshan Latheef at a press conference on Monday, revealed that it will no longer be supporting Abdul Mughni in the parliamentary elections.

Noting that an MDP candidate had recently faced "serious" domestic violence allegations, she said that the party's leadership had held discussions on the matter and chosen to withdraw support for him.

Highlighting MDP's support for women's rights, Afshan said that the allegations against Mughni are "against the party's fundamental principles."

"Hence, MDP has decided to withdraw support for Mughni," she said, adding that the party's leadership will not be taking part in any of his campaign activities.

She further noted that MDP has always fought for basic human rights, and that the party will not hesitate to take measures against those that violate its principles.

Mughni was elected as the party's representative for North-Thinadhoo constituency through an internal election held in January.

MDP is yet to announce whether it will be supporting any other candidates in the constituency.

There are two other candidates vying for the North-Thinadhoo constituency; independent candidates Saudhulla Hilmy and Ikleel Ahmed; the former is backed by coalition partner, Maumoon Reform Movement (MRM).

On Sunday, MDP's candidate for Mahibadhoo constituency withdrew his candidacy following a request from the party. MDP is now supporting coalition partner, Adhaalath Party's candidate in that constituency.