ECM to Set Up Over 600 Ballot Boxes in Parliamentary Elections

The Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) has announced that 602 ballot boxes will be established for the forthcoming parliamentary elections, a reduction from the previously planned number.

Initially, the parliamentary elections, slated for the 17th of this month, had 608 polling stations designated. However, due to adjustments in re-registration procedures, with the election rescheduled for the next month, the ECM has revised the number to 602.

Of these, 241 polling stations will be established in the Male’ area, comprising 181 stations in the city, 51 in Hulhumale’, and nine in Villimale’. The remaining 319 polling stations will be distributed across the provinces. Additionally, the ECM has opted to set up polling stations in three countries abroad, 34 in resorts, and five in prisons.

The decision regarding the placement of ballot boxes in foreign countries was made based on the number of registered voters in those locations. Ballot boxes will be installed in foreign countries where at least 150 people are registered to vote, and in resorts where a minimum of 30 individuals are registered.

The countries where ballot boxes will be placed abroad include India (Trivandrum), Sri Lanka (Colombo), and Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur).

Furthermore, the ECM has opened the opportunity for individuals registered in polling stations that have been cancelled due to insufficient re-registrations to re-register at locations where the ballot boxes will be placed. Those who may risk compromising the secrecy of their vote due to the registered ballot box are also encouraged to register to vote at an alternative location.

The upcoming parliamentary elections will see the 20th Parliament elect members from 93 constituencies, with a total of 371 candidates contesting the election.