Maldivians headed to the polls on Sunday to cast their votes in parliamentary elections, a pivotal moment for President Mohamed Muizzu's administration, closely observed by neighboring powerhouses India and China, both vying for control and influence in the Indian Ocean region.
The Maldives, strategically located in the Indian Ocean, has become a focal point in the geopolitical competition between India and China.
Muizzu's election as president last year intensified this rivalry, with the new leader adopting a pro-China stance and taking actions to reduce Indian influence in the archipelago.
Securing a parliamentary majority presents a challenge for Muizzu, given recent rifts within his coalition and the emergence of new political parties.
A total of 368 candidates from six political parties and independent groups are contesting for 93 parliamentary seats, reflecting an increase from the previous term to accommodate population growth.
Approximately 284,000 eligible voters participated in the elections, with preliminary results expected to be announced late Sunday.
During his presidential campaign, Muizzu's platform included the slogan "India out," criticizing his predecessor for allegedly conceding too much to Indian influence and compromising national sovereignty.
Tensions between the two countries escalated when Muizzu moved to replace Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives with civilian counterparts, signaling a shift away from Indian partnership.
In response, Indian social media activists initiated a tourism boycott of the Maldives, after three Maldivian deputy ministers made disparaging remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Consequently, the number of Indian tourists visiting the Maldives dropped significantly, impacting the country's tourism sector.
Meanwhile, Muizzu has actively courted China, negotiating increased tourism and air traffic from the country earlier this year.
The Maldives joined China's ambitious Belt and Road initiative in 2013, aligning itself with Beijing's efforts to expand trade networks and strengthen its influence across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
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