ECM Initiates Registration for Visually Impaired Individuals

The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has commenced the registration process for visually impaired individuals to participate in the forthcoming parliamentary election.

In a noteworthy development, the ECM introduced a plastic template during the previous presidential election, offering visually impaired voters the opportunity to cast their ballots independently. This innovation ensures both privacy and autonomy, marking a positive shift from reliance on external assistance.

Ismail Habeeb, Deputy chairman of ECM, emphasised the current open registration for visually impaired individuals opting to vote without assistance. The registration period, utilising the plastic template, spans from January 21 to February 4. 

Interested individuals can complete the registration process by contacting the 1414 hotline, operational from 08:00 to 10:00hrs on official working days and from 09:00 to 10:00hrs on public holidays. Additionally, the service will be available from 3:00 to 6:00 on Fridays.

With the parliamentary elections scheduled for March 17, the ECM is diligently finalising the voters’ list in preparation for the imminent electoral process.