DRP to back independent candidates in Maldives local council elections

The Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) has said it will support independent candidates contesting the local council elections, while fielding its own candidates in only a limited number of councils. In a statement, the party said the position was adopted after considering the conditions of the local council elections, the situation of the country and the party's principles. According to DRP, the decision was taken to give an opportunity to independent candidates and to strengthen local democracy. DRP said it will contest the election in a limited number of councils and will extend its support to independent candidates in the remaining councils, backing those it considers qualified and suitable for service to the people. The party said it will not support candidates who are unable to qualify through its internal process. According to the party, the number of nominations received has reached 11,216. DRP said it received 2,000 applications from candidates who wished to receive its support, and that between 1,350 and 1,950 candidates were considered for party backing, with 700 candidates among those selected from 700 seats. DRP also said the number of candidates who registered through the party's process was 12, while the total number registered was 309, with those candidates drawn from 12 councils. It said 360 seats were under consideration. The party said the list of candidates it will support in the local council elections was finalised after an internal selection process, carried out after considering candidates' qualifications and their ability to serve at the local level. DRP said it will provide party support only to candidates who satisfy the party's requirements.