The opposing Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) has won five of the eight seats in the Women's Development Committee (WDC) by-elections held Saturday.
The PPM contested eight seats, while the main-ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) contested six seats. While MDP won two seats, one seat was won by an independent candidate.
By-election results:
HDh. Finey
Zuhudha Mohamed / PPM - 147 votes
Moomina Ibrahim / MDP - 133 votes
R. Angolhitheemu
Asima Rasheed / Independent - 95 votes
Khadeeja Hussain / PPM - 82 votes
K. Dhiffushi
Aishath Sahira / PPM - 181 votes
Fathimath Arshee / Independent - 174 votes
Aa. Feridhoo
Saana Ahmed / MDP - 244 votes
Waseema Mohamed / PPM - 205 votes
M. Veyvah
Shifaza Ibrahim / PPM - 113 votes
Dhunya Khalid / MDP - 101 votes
Th. Gaadhiffushi
Maryam Hassan / MDP - 234 votes
Nihama Abdulla / PPM - 158 votes
L. Maamendhoo
Saudiyya Hussain / PPM - 224 votes
Nazima Abdul Samad / MDP - 202 votes
GDh. Hoandedhdhoo
Nazrana Hussain Manik / PPM - 204 votes
Lizuna Naseer / MDP - 86 votes
Maimoonath Shareef / Independent - 76 votes
The Decentralization Act previously said if a member of a WDC resigns, an election candidate must be elected within 60 days. However, it has now been amended such that by-elections would be held once a year.
