Second Round of Election Concluded with Positive Improvements, Reports HRCM

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has applauded the presidential election’s conduct, yesterday, affirming that the second round was held in adherence to principles of fairness and democracy. 

ރިޔާސީ އިންތިޚާބު 2023އާ ގުޅިގެން އެޗް.އާރް.ސީ.އެމް އިން ބާއްވާ ޕްރެސް ކޮންފަރެންސްhttps://t.co/kRgbZKG6Iq— HRC of the Maldives (@hrcmv) October 1, 2023

In a press conference dedicated to assessing the electoral proceedings, HRCM Chairperson Maryam Muna highlighted improvements introduced by the Election Commission of the Maldives (ECM) when compared to the first round.

One improvement noted by Muna was the increased presence of officials at polling stations, aimed at facilitating both voters and administrative processes. 

In particular, the number of officials in centers previously staffed by eight individuals was augmented to 11, enhancing the overall efficiency of operations.

HRCM praised the arrangements made for this round of elections, describing them as more complete than the initial stage. Muna further revealed that voting hours were extended, a measure taken to facilitate individuals with disabilities in exercising their right to vote.

“We acknowledge the rise in voter turnout, particularly in the evening hours. The training provided to center officials to reduce the number of invalid votes is also appreciated,” explained Muna.

Muna went on to highlight modifications implemented by the Election Commission of the Maldives to ensure the secrecy of votes cast. 

Moreover, she noted that unlike the first round, where polling did not commence on schedule at 63 polling stations, this time, polling concluded punctually at all stations. The HRCM additionally reported a lower proportion of police involvement in incidents during this round.

“In general, the second round displayed improvements over the first. Observers from various political parties and candidate representatives participated actively, and media and international observers demonstrated increased presence around polling stations,” Muna elaborated.

However, Muna expressed concern about the conduct of some observers and candidate representatives near certain polling stations. She cited instances of individuals taking close-up photographs and creating disturbances within polling stations. 

Furthermore, some political parties engaged with voters within the polling stations, which was deemed inappropriate.

The HRCM observed a total of 181 polling stations during the second round of the presidential election, with 106 in the city and 70 in 31 islands across 18 atolls. Observations were also conducted in two prisons and two resorts.