MVR 61 Million Allocated for Parliamentary Elections in State Budget

The Ministry of Finance has dedicated MVR 61 million in the national budget to cover the expenses for the forthcoming parliamentary elections in the Maldives. 

This budget allocation, as communicated by the Election Commission of the Maldives (ECM), meets the requirements proposed by the commission.

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Vice-Chairman Ismail Habeeb of the ECM confirmed the allocation following the commission’s request in an interview with Sun Media. 

He highlighted that the allocated amount is specifically designated to meet the financial needs of the parliamentary elections, with a further MVR 1.5 million designated for by-elections within women’s development committees.

Habeeb highlighted the increased budget compared to previous parliamentary elections, noting that this rise is primarily due to factors such as the escalating expenses associated with the increasing number of polling stations. 

The growing costs of additional centres and the recruitment of officials for these centres are among the anticipated expenditures.

The expanding number of parliamentary members over successive sessions has contributed to the amplified costs. The Parliament has seen a gradual increase in members, with the 17th Parliament comprising 77 members, the 18th Parliament consisting of 85 members, and the current 19th and 20th Houses having 87 and 93 members, respectively.