Pro-China President Muizzu's PNC dominates Maldives election, signaling shift away from India

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

parliamentary elections indicate a strong lead for President Mohamed Muizzu's ruling People's National Congress (PNC) over the opposition, including the India-friendly Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
Election Overview

The elections, held recently, saw about 2,84,000 eligible voters participating to elect 93 members of the Maldivian parliament, known as Majlis, for a five-year term. This election is a critical test for Muizzu's plans to enhance economic ties with China, potentially diverging from the nation's traditional ally, India.

Current Status
The PNC has secured 50 out of the 93 seats in the 20th People's Majlis, ensuring a majority in the upcoming parliament. This majority is achieved with half the seats, while a super majority can be reached with three-fourths of the seats, amounting to 70.

Implications for Muizzu's Policies
Muizzu, who is 45 years old, has been actively pursuing closer economic cooperation with China. His administration recently awarded high-profile infrastructure contracts to Chinese state-owned companies. Additionally, Muizzu's government is in the process of sending home 89 Indian troops who operate reconnaissance aircraft gifted by India, a move that has strained relations with New Delhi.

«Geopolitics is very much in the background as parties campaign for votes in Sunday's election,» a senior aide of Muizzu told AFP, asking not to be named. «He came to power on a promise to send back Indian troops and he is working on it. The