PNC has secured the highest number of seats in the local council elections, according to official results.
The Elections Commission said PNC won 74 island council presidencies, narrowly ahead of MDP with 71. Independent candidates secured 31 seats, while MDA won four, and JP and The Democrats won one each.
PNC recorded strong gains in Kaafu and Alifu atolls, while MDP led in Shaviyani and Raa. The results also showed a split across several atolls.
In terms of vote share, PNC received over 63,000 votes, accounting for around 44 per cent, while MDP secured over 51,000 votes.
MDP performed strongly in city councils, winning the majority of mayoral and council seats. The results indicate a shift in support across several islands.