MALE: The Maldives, a tropical paradise, went to the polls on Saturday in a closely watched election that is being viewed as a crucial referendum on the nation’s geopolitical direction, with India and China vying for influence.
Incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih faces a challenging battle for a second term, having worked diligently to repair strained relations with India, the Maldives’ traditional ally. His main rival, Mohamed Muizzu, led a party that previously welcomed significant Chinese investment, signaling a potential return to Beijing’s sphere of influence if he secures victory.
The President of Maldives Third-Way Democrats and Former Vice President, @Ahmed_Adeeb, has exercised his right to vote in the second round of the Presidential Election in 2023.#Visnun2023 pic.twitter.com/6eD9Pmu390
— Maldives Third-Way Democrats (@MTDSecretariat) September 30, 2023
Muizzu emerged as the frontrunner after the first round of voting earlier this month, capturing 46 percent of the vote. However, he fell short of the absolute majority required, leading to today’s runoff election. Election Commission officials anticipated a high voter turnout, possibly surpassing the 80 percent recorded during the initial vote, highlighting the significance of this election for the Maldivian people.
Queues formed early in the day, indicating the strong public interest in this pivotal election. Both President Solih and Muizzu expressed confidence in their chances of victory after casting their votes in separate polling booths in the capital, Male.
Geopolitical Influence of Maldives
The Maldives holds immense geopolitical importance due to its strategic location along key international shipping routes. Muizzu’s party had previously embraced financial support from China’s Belt and Road infrastructure program, a move that raised concerns in India and among its allies, including the United States, about China’s growing influence in the region.
In contrast, President Solih, elected in 2018, has worked to steer the Maldives away from what was perceived as a Chinese debt trap under the previous administration. However, Solih’s efforts to restore traditional alliances have not been without controversy, as some in the Maldives express reservations about India’s extensive political and economic influence.
Notably, Muizzu has vowed to release his mentor, former President Abdulla Yameen, who is currently serving an 11-year sentence for corruption. Yameen’s conviction prevented him from running for public office, paving the way for Muizzu’s candidacy.
Results are expected to be announced late Saturday or early Sunday. The outcome of this election will undoubtedly shape the Maldives’ future course amid the ongoing power play between India and China in the region.
