Foreign Observers Invited to Monitor Maldives Local Council Elections

The Election Commission of the Maldives has announced that foreign observers and monitors are welcome to observe the upcoming local council and Women’s Development Committee elections scheduled for 4 April.

The commission stated that applications for international election observation will be accepted from 18 January to 18 February. Eligibility is open to international organisations, foreign institutions and individuals who are at least 18 years old. Approved observers will not be permitted to campaign for any candidate or political party, in line with established election regulations.

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The commission said the invitation to international observers reflects its continued commitment to transparency and credibility in major electoral processes.

The upcoming elections will introduce several digital improvements, including the online submission of candidate nominations. A total of 626 councillors will be elected across 133 island councils, with each island council consisting of three members, including a council president and one female member. In addition, 46 islands will elect five councillors each, including two women. City councils will elect a combined total of 52 members.

Elections for Women’s Development Committees will be held alongside the local council polls. The committees will reflect the same number of elected members as local councils in both islands and cities, strengthening women’s representation in local governance structures.