Preliminary results from the Malé City mayoral election indicate that Adam Azim of the Maldivian Democratic Party has taken an early lead.

Based on votes counted so far, Azim has secured more than 3,000 votes, placing him ahead in the race.

In second position is Moosa Ali Jaleel, representing the People’s National Congress.

Independent candidate Ismail Zariyand is currently trailing in third place, according to the initial tallies.

Meanwhile, early trends from other key urban centres suggest a similar pattern, with candidates from the Maldivian Democratic Party also leading in the mayoral contests in Kulhudhuffushi City and Addu City.

Officials have noted that counting is still ongoing, and results remain subject to change.

During Sunday’s elections, a total of 294,876 eligible voters were registered to participate in the Local Council Elections, Women’s Development Committee (WDC) Elections, and the national referendum, including 144,506 women and 150,370 men.

According to preliminary figures, 185,709 voters cast their ballots, representing a turnout of 62.98% as of 16:00 PM.

This included 92,567 women and 93,142 men.

Further updates are expected as more ballots are processed.