ECM Plans to Hold Local Council Elections in April Next Year
A voter places a ballot into the box under the supervision of an election official at a polling station. | Photo credit: Elections Commission
The Election Commission of Maldives (ECM) is preparing to conduct local council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections in April next year, according to ECM President Mohamed Zahid.
In an exclusive interview with state media outlet Public Service Media (PSM), Zahid confirmed that preparations are underway. “We have initiated the process to conduct the elections,” he said, adding that the commission is currently seeking information regarding candidate selection for constituencies in line with existing laws and regulations.
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Zahid also revealed that efforts are being made to amend relevant laws and regulations as part of the preparatory process. He noted that the most significant logistical challenge facing the commission is the lack of suitable space to establish election centres in the capital. “Currently, as you can see, there is no Dharubaaruge. There is no previous old Jamaluddin. Therefore, finding a place like this in the city and establishing it poses challenges,” he said.
Cost-effectiveness is also a key priority in the commission’s planning. Zahid said measures are being explored to reduce expenses and make the process more efficient. Among these is an initiative to digitise all aspects of the local council elections except for voting and counting, aimed at improving convenience for the public.
