President Mohamed Muizzu's People's National Congress (PNC) clinched a landslide win in the Maldives parliamentary election held recently, a victory that could signal a deepening of ties with Beijing.
The PNC, fielding candidates for 90 out of the 93 seats in the Majlis, emerged victorious in 66 constituencies out of the 86 where results have been declared.
This commanding majority grants President Muizzu significant leverage to advance policies aligning with his perceived anti-India stance, a development likely to raise concerns in New Delhi.
The composition of the Majlis, which exercises oversight over the Maldivian executive, holds considerable implications for presidential decisions.
Previously, the PNC operated within a minority coalition in the House. This constrained Muizzu's ability to enact his agenda despite holding the presidency.
Under the leadership of Muizzu's pro-India predecessor Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) held power in the Majlis with 41 members.
However, the recent electoral setback sees the MDP facing a significant decline, securing victories in just a handful of seats.
Repercussions for India and economic cooperation with China
The electoral triumph of Muizzu's party signifies a shift in the political landscape, potentially encouraging his pro-China stance.
During his tenure, Muizzu has intensified diplomatic engagements, including military and financial, with Beijing, a trend that has raised eyebrows in New Delhi.
Muizzu's victory is seen as a litmus test for his aspirations to strengthen economic cooperation with China.
Since assuming office, the president has facilitated major infrastructure projects awarded to Chinese state-owned enterprises.
The Maldives' dependence on China has escalated since Muizzu's ascension to power.
On his return, he said, "We may be small, but this doesn't give them the licence to bully us."
While he did not name any country, the remark was seen as a swipe at India.
President Muizzu also pushed for the exit of 80-odd Indian soldiers who were stationed on the island for humanitarian work.
Last month, however, Muizzu appeared to be extending an olive branch when he acknowledged India's financial support to Male and said "India will remain the Maldives' closest ally".
India's response: A diplomatic balancing act
Despite the perceived strain in bilateral relations, India has adopted a measured approach towards the Maldives.
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has emphasised the enduring importance of regional partnerships, suggesting a pragmatic stance amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
For China, bolstering ties with strategically positioned nations like the Maldives is pivotal to its broader geopolitical strategy.
Beijing's commitment to strengthening relations with the Maldives signals its intention to deepen its influence in the Indian Ocean region, amplifying concerns among regional stakeholders.
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