Campaign posters belonging to candidates of the People’s National Congress (PNC) in Addu City have been vandalised ahead of their planned installation, according to party officials.
The materials were reportedly placed near the Maradhoo Bridge and were prepared for assembly, with poles and related structures set up the previous night. However, when party members arrived to begin installing the posters, they discovered that the materials had been damaged.
Speaking to The Standard, Mohamed Sinan (Sina), Member of Parliament for North Hithadhoo, alleged that crude oil had been used to deface several of the posters, while others appeared to have been deliberately cut, possibly using a saw.
MP Sina said he suspects the act may have been politically motivated and described the incident as unacceptable. He condemned what he characterised as destructive tactics carried out under the guise of “anti-campaigning,” adding that such behaviour has no place in modern democratic processes.
Police have confirmed that an investigation is underway. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
The vandalism comes amid preparations for upcoming elections, with campaign activities intensifying across the country. Authorities have not yet identified any suspects or publicly attributed responsibility for the damage.
