Former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has said that the Government will win a substantial amount of Parliament seats.

Speaking to the media after casting his vote, Yameen said that the ruling party would always have an advantage. As such, he said the Government can always start projects to create job opportunities, and thus would win a substantial amount of parliament seats.

Yameen added that it should not be an issue if the Government does not win a majority in the election, and that whoever wins the majority should not pose challenges for the Government either.

He further added that money has been distributed ahead of elections and that though bribery is a criminal offence, it often goes unaccounted for.

"Bribes are being offered left and right. I am not saying bribery is right or wrong. It is declared wrong by law. But what is the use of a law that is not implemented by Police or the Government?" Yameen said.

He said that voters have been offered MVR 5,000 and above for votes in some places.