ECM Discloses Nomination of Only Two Candidates So Far

The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has disclosed that the number of individuals who have submitted their candidacies for the upcoming parliamentary election remains low, with only two candidates having put forward their names thus far.

The period for interested candidates to present their candidacy forms commenced on January 30 and is slated to conclude on February 14. ECM has urged potential candidates to promptly lodge their application forms, stressing that delaying until the final moments may impede the resolution of any form-related issues. Notably, the deadline for application submissions will not be extended.

Application forms are obtainable and can be submitted at the Dharubaaruge convention centre during the hours of 0900 to 1400hrs, with an additional submission window on Fridays from 1400 to 1600hrs.

ECM has clarified that both political parties and independent candidates meet the eligibility criteria to participate in the parliamentary election. Independent candidates must garner 50 signatures demonstrating support from their respective constituencies. Additionally, they are required to furnish criminal and debt records, with records cleared after December 15 being deemed acceptable.

As the parliamentary election is slated for March 17, ECM has instigated the re-registration process, which can exclusively be completed online through the ECM portal. ECM underscored the importance of individuals taking personal responsibility and re-registering at their earliest convenience, as the deadline for re-registration to vote in the parliamentary election stands at February 7.