Political Parties Proposes Polling Hour Extension for Elections Amid Weather Worries

Political parties have proposed the extension of polling hours for the upcoming parliamentary elections, citing weather concerns in certain islands.

During a meeting of the national elections advisory committee yesterday, Fuad Thaufeeq, the chairman of the Elections Commission of Maldives  (ECM), sought the input of political parties on the possibility of extending polling hours in the event of rain on voting day.

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Fuad mentioned that the commission anticipates receiving separate requests for extensions in areas affected by rain on Sunday. The commission aims to establish the polling hours either from 08:00 am to 04:00 pm or 08:00 am to 05:00 pm, depending on the consensus reached.

Both political parties and independent institutions expressed support for extending the polling hours. Committee members reasoned that an extension would be beneficial, particularly considering the current hot weather conditions in the Maldives, provided it does not rain.

Following the discussions, Fuad highlighted that the committee unanimously agreed to recommend an extension of polling hours and proposed that it be applied to all polling stations.

Fuad announced that the commission would make its final decision known today after further deliberations.