Members elected in the recent Local Council Elections and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections were officially sworn into office on Sunday.

Several councillors elected for the fifth term of councils across the Maldives, including Malé City, have taken their oath of office, while swearing-in ceremonies continue in other islands and cities throughout the day.

The swearing-in ceremony for newly elected members of the Malé City Council was held at the Social Centre.

Oaths were administered by judges or magistrates designated for the purpose in each island and city.

In the Local Council Elections held in April, a total of 677 councillors were elected. Of those, 676 councillors are scheduled to take their oath of office on Sunday.

Meanwhile, 673 members were elected in the Women’s Development Committee elections, with 662 members expected to sign their oath declarations on Sunday.

Following the completion of the swearing-in process and signing of declarations, councils are set to hold their first official meetings. During these meetings, deputy mayors and deputy presidents of councils will be elected.

In addition, members of Women’s Development Committees are also expected to begin the process of electing deputy presidents after signing their declarations.

The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) secured more than 580 seats in the recent elections. Independent candidates also recorded wins, with 168 candidates elected across the council and WDC elections.