ECM Warns Negative Campaigning Undermines Trust in Elections

The President of the Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM), Mohamed Zahid, has highlighted that negative campaigning against candidates is a major factor contributing to declining confidence in elections.

He made the remarks in an interview with PSM News on the occasion of Voters’ Day, which is observed annually on 25 August to emphasise the importance of the right to vote. Voters’ Day was first introduced in 2016 during Democracy Day and serves as a reminder that voting is both a fundamental right and a civic responsibility that enables citizens to shape the country’s future.

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Zahid noted that although voting remains one of the most important duties in the governance of both island communities and the nation, participation has fallen in some elections. He stressed the importance of restoring public trust in candidates and said that voters must feel assured their choice would result in leaders who contribute positively to national progress.

According to Zahid, political campaigning often takes two forms: appealing for support for one’s own candidates and discouraging support for rivals. He said the latter, known as anti-campaigning, weakens voter confidence and undermines trust in the democratic process. He urged political parties to campaign fairly and focus on approaches that build public confidence.