Eight of the 10 seats to be filled in Thaa Vilufushi in the upcoming local council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections have been secured uncontested by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), following the close of nominations.

According to the nominations outcome, candidates for the posts of four council members and four WDC members were elected without a vote, as no other candidates contested those positions. As a result, eight seats were awarded uncontested, while polling will be required for the remaining two positions, where independent candidates are contesting the posts of Council President and WDC President.

Speaking to MMTV, MP for Vilufushi constituency Hassan Waheed said that although Vilufushi has a significant number of supporters of the opposition, residents opted not to field candidates for the uncontested seats. He said this reflected a local preference to avoid disruption to ongoing development efforts on the island.

The MP attributed the outcome to development initiatives implemented in Vilufushi in recent years, noting that residents prioritised continuity in local governance. He added that several infrastructure projects are being carried out during the current Administration, including airport-related development and other public works.