Wednesday 11 Mar 2026
Maldives Development Alliance (MDA)’s leader, Meedhoo MP Ahmed Siyam Mohamed captured at MDA's extraordinary congress on August 10, 2022. (Sun Photo/Mohamed Hayyan)
The Maldives Development Alliance has formally expressed its support for the government proposal to conduct parliamentary and presidential elections on the same day. By consolidating these major electoral events, the party aims to alleviate pressure on public finances and enhance national debt management. The MDA emphasizes that this strategic alignment reflects a commitment to economic resilience and fiscal responsibility, a vision championed by its president, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed. While legislative approval for the plan is secured, the government is currently preparing for a mandatory constitutional referendum scheduled for April 4, which will coincide with the local council elections to finalize the transition process.
The Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) announced on Tuesday evening that it supports holding the parliamentary and presidential elections on the same day, describing the move as the most responsible choice for the country’s current economic climate.
Parliament has already approved the proposal, with the referendum scheduled to take place on 4 April alongside the local council elections.
In its statement, the MDA said consolidating the two national elections would bring “significant benefits to the state and the Maldivian people, considering the economic situation and the need to maintain national stability”.
The party highlighted that MDA President Ahmed Siyam Mohamed has consistently championed policies that improve living standards and strengthen the economy. As both a parliamentarian and a leading businessman, Siyam has long prioritised economic stability, fiscal responsibility and social cohesion, the statement said.
“The party acknowledges the government’s position that merging the elections will ease pressure on public finances and support debt management,” the MDA noted.
The party described the decision as a positive step for national development and urged all state institutions to work together to reduce expenditure and reinforce economic resilience.
“This party will always continue to protect the highest interests of the people,” the statement said, reaffirming the MDA’s commitment to supporting efforts that secure the country’s future and economic stability.
While Parliament has approved holding the two elections together, the Constitution requires public consultation before such a change is implemented. The government has therefore decided to hold the referendum alongside the council elections.
