Most Polling Stations Opened Voting on Time, Says Transparency Maldives

MV+ News Desk | September 9, 2023
Photo: MV+

During the set opening time of the presidential election polls, Transparency Maldives reported a smooth process, with most stations operational by 9:00 am, 85.8% within the first 10 minutes.

TM reported that nearly all polling station officials were in place, and the necessary voting materials were readily available. They also said that ballot papers were counted and reconciled at all polling stations, and all ballot boxes were verified as empty at the outset of the voting process.

The organisation maintains a national network spanning Malé, the atolls, resorts, industrial islands, and prisons, as well as international observations in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The statement released today from TM commends the dedication of over 400 observers and volunteers deployed across the country in their role of observing and assisting in the election observation processes.

TM observation of the 2023 Presidential Election encompasses the assessment of both election-day proceedings and the broader electoral and political environment, starting from May 2023.

Furthermore, TM also stated that candidates were well represented at polling stations, with three or more candidate/party observers present at 89.5% of the observed polling stations. Additionally, all polling stations had at least one candidate/party observer, and 7.2% had five or more party/candidate observers.

The presence of observers from various political coalitions was also noted, with the PPM/PNC coalition represented at 72% of the polling stations, the MDP/AP/MDA coalition at 71%, and The Democrats at 34%.

TM also highlighted the presence of police outside 96% of the observed polling stations at the opening time, indicating security measures in place.

Observers from TM concluded that the majority of polling stations were arranged to ensure a secret vote, with 97% meeting this criterion. However, in approximately 3% of cases observed, this aspect was less clear, prompting continued scrutiny by their observers.

Transparency Maldives urged all political parties to maintain peace throughout the voting process and after the preliminary results are announced. They also encouraged all eligible voters to exercise their right to vote.

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