Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness and PNC campaign manager Abdulla Rafiu has said the North Hithadhoo by-election campaign has provided valuable lessons and a clear path for the party's future work despite the outcome of the election.

Speaking to the media after provisional results of the by-election were announced, minister Rafiu said the campaign demonstrated the party's ability to work in a coordinated manner and helped identify areas where efforts could be strengthened moving forward. He described the campaign as a new beginning and said it had provided important direction for the party's future growth.

According to provisional results released by the Elections Commission, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Abdulla Sodhiq received 1,375 votes, representing 51.15 per cent of ballots cast, while People's National Congress (PNC) candidate Ahmed Saeed secured 1,313 votes, or 48.85 per cent. 

Minister Rafiu noted that the PNC secured a lead of 34 votes in ballot boxes located in Hithadhoo, saying the result reflected the confidence placed in the party by voters in the constituency. He added that the campaign had highlighted development priorities for North Hithadhoo and provided an opportunity to engage closely with residents on issues affecting the constituency.

Thanking campaign workers and supporters for their efforts over the past month, minister Rafiu said the election was conducted in a positive atmosphere and concluded peacefully. He added that the issues identified during the campaign would continue to guide the party's work in both the atolls and Malé region, while reaffirming the party's commitment to supporting President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's development agenda.