ECM Rejects Yameen’s Candidacy
Photo: The President’s Office
The Election Commission of Maldives (ECM) has officially deemed the candidacy of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) presidential candidate and former President, Abdullah Yameen, ineligible.
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As per the criteria established for presidential candidates, individuals must not possess any criminal convictions or have received sentences of more than 12 months in prison, unless the sentence has been served, or three years have elapsed since a pardon was granted.
In light of these conditions, the ECM cited Yameen’s ongoing 11-year imprisonment for money laundering as the grounds for disqualifying his candidacy. Although an appeal is presently pending in the High Court, the stage of sentencing remains unresolved.
Despite Yameen’s candidacy being declined, his running mate and former Vice President, Dr. Jameel, has been permitted to proceed with his bid for the post.
With the deadline for nominations expiring next Monday, the PPM now faces the task of exploring other potential candidates. The party leadership has asserted that Yameen will play a pivotal role in the decision-making process regarding the selection of an alternative candidate.
