Maldivians participated in parliamentary elections on Sunday, a significant event for President Mohamed Muizzu, whose policies are closely monitored by India and China as they compete for influence in the archipelago nation. Both countries are eager to establish a presence in the Maldives due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean.
President Muizzu's election last year intensified the rivalry between India and China, with the new leader adopting a pro-China stance and taking steps to remove Indian troops stationed on one of the country's islets. Securing a majority in Parliament poses a challenge for Muizzu as some of his allies have distanced themselves, and additional parties have entered the electoral race.
Six political parties and independent groups have put forward 368 candidates for the 93 parliamentary seats, an increase of six seats from the previous Parliament to accommodate population growth. Approximately 284,000 eligible voters were expected to cast their ballots, with preliminary results anticipated to be announced late Sunday.
During his presidential campaign, Muizzu's platform included the slogan 'India out,' criticizing his predecessor for allegedly granting India excessive influence, leading to the presence of 75 Indian military personnel in the Maldives. Muizzu has initiated measures to transition civilian authorities to manage activities previously handled by Indian military personnel.
Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated further when Indian social media activists launched a tourism boycott campaign against the Maldives in response to derogatory remarks made by three Maldivian deputy ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Consequently, the number of Indian tourists visiting the Maldives has declined, dropping India from the top spot to sixth in terms of foreign visitors.
President Muizzu visited China earlier this year and successfully negotiated an increase in Chinese tourists and inbound flights. In 2013, the Maldives joined China's 'Belt and Road' initiative, aimed at enhancing trade and expanding China's influence through infrastructure projects across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
