EU EOM Highlights Misuse of State-Owned Resources for Campaign,

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) noted that the use of state-owned resources, including state-owned enterprises, was conspicuous during the campaign period.

In the election campaign in the Maldives, the prominent Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) took center stage, while smaller parties and independent candidates added diversity to the political landscape. 

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) noted that the use of state-owned resources, including state-owned enterprises, was conspicuous during the campaign period. pic.twitter.com/EHXcrvpP3L— MV+ (@mvplusmedia) September 11, 2023

The campaigns were marked by promises of economic growth and extensive infrastructural development from all sides, but they were also marred by allegations of state-owned resource utilisation by both major parties.

One positive aspect of the campaign was the overall peaceful atmosphere. Candidates and their supporters enjoyed freedom of movement and assembly, contributing to an environment conducive to political participation. 

However, some arrests of opposition protestors occurred in locations visited by President Solih.

One area of concern highlighted by the EU EOM is the relatively light regulation and limited enforcement of campaign finance rules. 

Transparency in the income and expenditure of candidates remains lacking, and the Election Commission of Maldives (ECM), responsible for auditing campaign finance reports, faces capacity challenges in carrying out this crucial task.

Moreover, the high spending limit, exceeding MVR 560,000,000,000, has the potential to distort the democratic process by favoring well-funded candidates and parties. This financial aspect of the campaign process merits further scrutiny and consideration in the ongoing effort to ensure free and fair elections in the Maldives.