Voting under way in Maldives presidential election

President Mohamed Solih waves after casting his vote at a polling station in Male, Maldives (Mohamed Sharuhaan/AP/PA)

Voting started in the Maldives presidential election on Saturday, a virtual referendum over which regional power – India or China – will have the biggest influence in the Indian Ocean archipelago state.

Eight runners are vying for the post, with current President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih — perceived as pro-India — facing off with his main rival Mohamed Muiz.