ECM Will Ensure Impartiality in Upcoming  Election, Says Habeeb

In a press conference held at the election headquarters, the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) Vice Chairman, Ismail Habeeb, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and secrecy of votes of the upcoming presidential election.

Habeeb firmly stated that the Commission would not allow any external influence or collaboration with any political party to sway the election. He emphasised that even ballot papers brought in from abroad would not be accepted unless they bear a separate stamp and special security features.

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Addressing concerns from the opposition about the secrecy of the vote and potential election interference, Habeeb reiterated the ECM’s unwavering dedication to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. 

“We assure you that the ECM will not allow anyone or any party to influence the election and compromise the secrecy of the election,” he stated.

Habeeb also provided logistical updates regarding the election preparations. Ballot papers and voter lists have been finalised and distributed to all the islands except the Male’ Atoll. The remaining islands of the Male’ Atoll are set to receive these materials on the 4th of this month. 

Subsequently, ballot papers and other election-related items will be sent abroad on the 6th and 7th of this month, with ballot papers destined for resorts scheduled for delivery on the 8th of this month. The entire process is being conducted under the supervision of the police to ensure transparency and security.

To oversee the electoral process, a substantial number of observers, monitors, and delegates will be deployed across the country. The ECM announced that a total of 3,034 observers, 3,810 monitors, and 1,490 delegates will be stationed at polling stations in various regions. 

Among these, 143 foreign observers and 22 monitors will be deployed out of Maldives, with 40 of them representing the European Union (EU).