ECM Opts Against Polling Stations in 22 Locations Due to Low Re-registration

The Election Commission of Maldives (ECM) has announced its decision not to establish polling stations in 22 locations due to insufficient re-registration numbers.

The ECM disclosed that out of the 22 locations, comprising 16 resorts, four countries, and one industrial facility, the requisite re-registration for participation in this year’s parliamentary elections has not been met.

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Among the resorts that decided not to place polling stations are Soneva Jani, Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau, Joali, Reethi Beach Resort, Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives, Kuredu Island Resort Maldives, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, Cinnamon DhonVeli Maldives, Oblu by Atmosphere at Helengeli, Villa Nautica Paradise Island, Constance Moofushi, Niyama Maldives, Lux South Ari Atoll Maldives, Milaidhoo Island Maldives, and W Maldives.

Among the countries that decided not to place polling stations are India (Trivandrum), Thailand (Bangkok), United Kingdom (London), and United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi).

Consequently, the commission has opted against deploying ballot boxes in these areas. However, individuals who have re-registered for these locations are encouraged to consider re-registering at alternative polling stations.

Those who originally registered at these polling stations have the opportunity to re-register starting from this morning until 4:00 pm tomorrow, utilising the ECM portal.

Failure to re-register within this stipulated time frame will necessitate voting at the registered island location.

Originally scheduled for March 17, the parliamentary elections face a potential delay pending an amendment to the General Election Act proposed by Parliament. The proposed amendment seeks to reschedule the elections to occur 10 days after Ramadan, indicating a likely postponement until after the conclusion of Ramadan.