Surprising Triumph: Maldives Presidential Election Declares Pro-China Candidate Mohamed Muizzu as Winner
Opposition candidate Mohamed Muizzu secures victory in Maldives' presidential election, potentially indicating a shift towards closer ties with China over India for the Indian Ocean nation
In the Maldives presidential election, Mohamed Muizzu, the opposition candidate, emerged victorious in a second-round runoff, defeating incumbent President Ibrahim Solih. This outcome could signify a potential shift towards closer ties with China for the Indian Ocean archipelago, departing from its traditional alliance with India. The Elections Commission of the Maldives reported on its website that Muizzu secured 54% of the ballots, while Solih received 46% in Saturday's vote, with nearly all votes counted.
85% of the eligible voters in the Maldives, a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, came out to vote at over 586 polling stations spread across 187 islands. "I extend my congratulations to Muizzu for his victory in the election, and express my gratitude to the citizens for their exceptional commitment to democracy," Solih stated on X, previously referred to as Twitter.
Solih, who advocated for a policy of prioritizing India, will continue serving as president until Muizzu's inauguration on November 17th. The coalition supporting Muizzu has previously shown support for Chinese loans and investment endeavors.
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In the race for influence in the Maldives, both India and China are competing, as demonstrated by the story of two bridges. The former President Abdulla Yameen, who has strong connections with Muizzu, is currently serving an 11-year prison sentence for corruption and money laundering. Supporters of Yameen argue that the charges brought against him were driven by political motives.
"Today the people made a strong decision to win back Maldives independence," Muizzu told reporters in the capital, Male.
"All of us, working together with unity, Insha Allah, we will be successful."
Muizzu also called on President Solih to release Yameen to house arrest.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a congratulatory message to Muizzu following the announcement of his victory.
"India remains committed to strengthening the time-tested India-Maldives bilateral relationship and enhancing our overall cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region," Modi said on X.
