President Muizzu Denies Rumoured Plans for E-Voting System

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu denied the rumours that he plans to introduce an electronic voting system to the Maldives on the sixth episode of the Rayyithunaa Eku podcast.

Rayyithunaa Eku, meaning With the Citizens, is a podcast hosted by the President’s Office where President Muizzu talks about recent events in the country as well as upcoming and planned projects. Today’s episode focused on the new legislation this administration plans to propose to the parliament.

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He addressed rumours surrounding the recent Maldives 2.0 Digital Transformation Summit, organised by the government, while discussing the new legislation he intends to submit concerning the current electoral system in the Maldives. He firmly denied allegations that he used the summit to pave the way for introducing an electronic voting system in the country.

“This is not something we have been thinking about at all. Or have made the decision on as well,” President Muizzu said, speaking in Dhivehi.

He explained that in countries with established digital voting systems, electronic voting is offered as an optional service rather than a mandatory one. Citing Estonia as an example, he pointed out that the country introduced electronic voting only after successfully digitalising all other public services. Even then, voters can choose whether or not to use the system.

The key legislative change he aims to introduce is to hold the Presidential and Parliamentary elections simultaneously, in an effort to reduce costs. At present, Parliamentary elections take place approximately six months after the Presidential election.

“This is something that will go to the citizens, that requires a public referendum as well. This is not something that will be decided because I made a decision. I will not make such a decision even if I could. I want to ask the citizens and make a decision,” he said. 

Other topics he addressed during this episode include the importance of introducing a way to hold elected officials accountable and of amending the laws so that the number of elected legislators will not exceed the current amount.