The opposing Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) has decided to conduct a primary to determine the party's candidate for the upcoming Guraidhoo by-election to elect an MP for the Guraidhoo constituency.
The Guraidhoo seat became vacant with the death of PPM MP Ibrahim Riza on February 23. He passed away in Malaysia while being treated for an intestinal ailment. According to Article 79 of the Constitution, a vacant Parliament seat must be filled within 60 days from the date the seat becomes vacant. Therefore, the Elections Commission has scheduled to hold the Guraidhoo by-election on April 15.
PPM has opened opportunity to submit forms to contest the primary until 1430 hrs on Tuesday. A PPM official said the primary polls had been scheduled for next Friday as more than one candidate is expected to apply for the party ticket.
The MDP and MNP have so far announced their intention to contest the by-election.
