The People’s National Congress (PNC) has concluded its primary for the upcoming Local Council Elections, reporting a record turnout of more than 11,300 voters across the country. 

Voting took place simultaneously at 45 locations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the party confirming that the process proceeded safely and without major disruptions.

According to the PNC, over 21,000 registered members were eligible to vote in constituencies where primaries were required, with the final turnout surpassing 50 per cent. The party stated that this is the highest participation recorded in an internal election by any political party in the Maldives to date, reflecting significant member engagement ahead of next year’s local council elections.

Ballot boxes were only placed in designated voting areas rather than across all atolls. However, the party noted that the high turnout demonstrated strong interest among members. Results are expected to be announced once verification procedures conclude.

The PNC said the voter registry used for the primary was based on the Elections Commission’s official records, which it claims leaves no room for vote manipulation. A preliminary voters’ list was published on the party’s website ahead of polling, with an opportunity provided for members to submit complaints before the final list was confirmed. The party added that only two appointed officials supervised today’s voting in each region, selected through consultations with island and city steering committees.

Party representatives described the primary as a well-organised process with strong public confidence, citing the turnout as evidence of internal support and preparedness heading into local council polls.