Opposing PPM-PNC coalition has kicked off their campaign for the upcoming local council election at a colorful ceremony held Friday night.
The ceremony held in capital Male' was attended by a large number of supporters, with many calling for the release of their jailed leader, Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom. The policies of the PPM-PNC coalition were announced at the event.
The PPM manifesto is based on five main policies, including a stratagem that calls on councillors to work within the boundaries of Islam and undertake efforts to maintain the country's independence. According to their manifesto, councillors representing the party will attempt to implement the economic policies followed by President Yameen during his administration. PPM councillors will accept the Maldives' unitary state and work accordingly, as well as adopt modern principles.
PPM senior member Muaz said the party would not obstruct the current government in implementing government projects nor would they taunt the government. However, the party will actively try to pressure the government to bring about the desired development.
The official campaign song used for the LCE was launched at last night's ceremony.
Last week, main-ruling MDP also kicked off their LCE campaign. The number of supporters present in the ceremony were significantly less than the turnout at the opposition rally. The party's president and Speaker of the Parliament Mohamed Nasheed had stated that the low turnout at the event showed that the people were dissatisfied that the government has been unable to fulfill their hopes.
The local council election is slated for April 4. Over 980 officials will be elected to island, city and atoll councils in the election.
