ECM Forecasts Over 700 Ballot Boxes for Parliamentary Election

The Election Commission of Maldives (ECM) anticipates the need for over 700 ballot boxes to facilitate the forthcoming parliamentary elections. 

According to the Vice Chairman of the ECM, Ismail Habeeb, this estimation is contingent on the finalisation of voter lists and the conclusion of the re-registration period.

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Habeeb conveyed that the commission plans to establish between 500 and 700 polling stations, with the final number being determined based on the aforementioned factors. The objective behind increasing the number of polling stations is to reduce the voter load per station. 

It was emphasised that the election is scheduled to take place during the month of Ramadan, aiming to mitigate prolonged queues for voters.

Highlighting previous elections where over a thousand ballot boxes were utilised, Habeeb pointed out that the current estimation represents a reduction. Additionally, if more than 150 individuals register to vote abroad, a ballot box will be stationed at the respective Maldivian Embassy. Furthermore, islands and resorts with over 30 re-registered voters will also have dedicated ballot boxes.

The ECM has finalised the date for the parliamentary elections, scheduled to take place in March. The total number of eligible voters stands at 284,327, comprising 145,162 males and 139,165 females. This figure reflects an increase of 1,523 voters compared to the second round of the presidential election.

The ECM has made the voter register public and has invited complaints, with the deadline for submissions set for the 21st of this month.