The recent parliamentary election in the Maldives has solidified President Mohamed Muizzu’s ruling party’s dominance, with the People’s National Congress securing 65 out of 93 seats. This landslide victory is expected to further propel the country towards aligning itself more closely with China, signaling a departure from its historical ties with India.
The outcome of the election indicates a clear shift in the Maldives’ foreign policy, with Muizzu’s pro-China party gaining significant power in the parliament. This victory not only consolidates his position but also strengthens his agenda of moving away from the traditional “India-First” policy that has long defined the country’s diplomatic relations.
Challenges for the Opposition
On the other hand, the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party suffered a significant setback, winning only 12 seats compared to the 65 seats it held previously. This decline in support underscores the challenges faced by the opposition in countering the growing influence of the ruling party and its pro-China stance.
The results of the parliamentary election have broader implications for the geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean region. Both China and India closely monitored the outcome, highlighting their strategic interests in the Maldives. As these two economic powerhouses vie for influence in the strategically important archipelago, the election results are likely to impact their respective agendas and engagement with the Maldivian government.
Future Prospects
With Muizzu’s party securing a commanding majority in the parliament, the president is expected to push ahead with his agenda of realigning the Maldives’ foreign policy in favor of closer ties with China. This shift could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s economic and strategic interests, as well as its relations with neighboring countries in the region.
The recent election in the Maldives has reshaped the political landscape of the country and set the stage for a significant reorientation of its foreign policy. The dominance of President Muizzu’s pro-China party in the parliament signals a new chapter in the Maldives’ relations with major powers in the region, particularly China and India. It remains to be seen how this shift will unfold and what it means for the country’s future trajectory on the international stage.
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