Maldives Opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih wins presidential election in surprise victory

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Maldives' Opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih declared victory early Monday in the country's contentious presidential election, which was widely seen as a referendum on the island nation's young democracy. AP

Maldives' Opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih declared victory early Monday in the...

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The win was unexpected, and Solih's supporters flooded the streets, hugging one another, waving the Maldivian flag, cheering and honking horns in celebration. AP

The win was unexpected, and Solih's supporters flooded the streets, hugging one another, waving...

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Maldives strongman President Yameen Abdul Gayoom conceded that he lost Sunday's election to his challenger, Solih, in a speech broadcast live on television on Monday. AP

Maldives strongman President Yameen Abdul Gayoom conceded that he lost Sunday's election to his...

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Solih, 56, was a democracy activist during decades of autocratic rule and a former Parliament majority leader. He became the Maldivian Democratic Party's presidential candidate after its other top figures were jailed or exiled by Yameen's government. AP

Solih, 56, was a democracy activist during decades of autocratic rule and a former Parliament...

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According to independent news website mihaaru.com, Solih had 58.3 percent of the vote with nearly 97.5 percent of ballots counted early Monday.Official results would not be announced until Saturday, allowing a week for parties to challenge the results in court. AP

According to independent news website mihaaru.com, Solih had 58.3 percent of the vote with nearly...