Nasheed calls for calm after Addu referendum, urges communities to prevent dissent

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has urged the public to ensure that no anger or division arises from the decision by Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo to separate from Addu City Council.

In Saturday’s referendum, Feydhoo voted against forming a separate council, while Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo voted in favor of establishing independent island councils.

Sharing the provisional results on X, Nasheed noted that a large majority in Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo had voted to separate. He wrote:

“I hope all of you will encourage this vote not to increase dissent amongst the people.”

MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail also welcomed the referendum outcome, describing Feydhoo’s decision to remain under the council as a wise one, and expressing hope that Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo would thrive through self-governance.

Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar likewise acknowledged the result, calling the separation of Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo “a bereavement,” but emphasized that it would not affect the relationship between communities. He called for unity in Addu’s development.

The Elections Commission announced provisional results on Saturday evening:

A total of 4,493 people voted in the referendum, 47 percent of the 9,576 eligible voters.