In a sweeping early result that signals a strong urban mandate, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party has secured victories across all major cities in Saturday’s local council elections.

From the capital to the atolls, incumbent mayors held their ground. In Malé, Adam Aazim clinched a second term after defeating PNC candidate Moosa Ali Jaleel. In Addu City, Ali Nizar was re-elected, overcoming challenger Mushrif Ali.

The pattern repeated across the country’s other cities. Ismail Rafeeq retained Fuvahmulah, Mohamed Athif secured another term in Kulhudhuffushi against Ibrahim Hassan, while Saud Ali defeated Mohamed Ajeeb in Thinadhoo.

Saturday’s vote was not limited to council races. Voters across the Maldives also cast ballots in the Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections and a national referendum on whether presidential and parliamentary elections should be held concurrently — adding broader political weight to the day’s outcomes.

While the opposition’s dominance in the cities is already clear from preliminary results, the overall balance of power remains uncertain. The total number of seats secured by the ruling People's National Congress and the MDP nationwide is yet to be confirmed.