First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has urged eligible voters to turn out in large numbers for the upcoming Local Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections, stressing the importance of public participation in shaping local development and governance.

Speaking at the inauguration of the campaign office for the Central Maafannu constituency, the First Lady noted that voter turnout in previous local council elections had been relatively low, and encouraged citizens to view participation in elections as a civic responsibility that directly influences the future of their communities.

She said that the councils elected through the local polls play an important role in supporting development initiatives at island and city levels, and that effective local leadership is essential for ensuring that development policies and projects are implemented in a way that benefits residents. The First Lady cautioned against apathy towards elections, noting that disengagement could result in leadership that may not align with broader development priorities.

Highlighting the link between civic participation and long-term progress, the First Lady said the choices made by voters affect not only current development efforts, but also the future opportunities available to younger generations. 

Referring to turnout figures from previous elections, the First Lady said participation had been around 30 per cent, and called for collective efforts to increase engagement in the upcoming polls. She encouraged citizens to exercise their right to vote and to take an active role in shaping local governance structures.

The Local Council and WDC elections are scheduled to be held on 4 April 2026.