Government Unwraps an Unexpected Holiday Gift: September 10th Declared a Day-Off

A shout-out to the Elections Commission of the Maldives!

First and foremost, we would like to give a special shout-out to the Elections Commission of the Maldives for their hard work in preparing for the upcoming presidential election. Their efforts since August 31 have been commendable in getting the polling materials ready and shipped out to the surrounding atolls. We also want to extend our gratitude to the Maldives Police Service for their assistance in ensuring the safe and secure transportation of these materials. The provisions have successfully reached all the atolls, with the exception of Malé atoll, where they will be promptly sent on September 4. It’s poll season, and we’re off to a flying start!

Security Measures and Candidate Line-Up for Election Day

As part of the security measures for the election, our dedicated police force officers have started their posting on the islands since August 30. They are the guardians of public election security. Meanwhile, the presidential candidates have been busy finalizing the signing-off process for eligible voter names. This important step was completed by August 27. We have a total of eight strong candidates vying for the ultimate supremacy, featuring both party powerhouses and self-styled independent movers and shakers.

Record-Breaking Applications Received and Voting Stations Set Up Across Regions

We are excited to share that the Elections Commission received an astounding total of 9,887 applications for various roles related to the presidential election. These applications include 4,545 eager-beaver monitors, 3,607 discerning observers, and 1,735 dedicated delegates, all ready to shoulder their responsibilities during these elections. With a significant number of eligible voters, amounting to 282,395 individuals, the democratic wave is set to hit our sunny shores in a big way.

A Global Presence in Polling Booths

With great emphasis on accessibility, we have gone above and beyond to ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their vote. As a result, a record-breaking 574 polling stations will be scattered across the nation on Election Day. This includes 176 strategically placed stations in the bustling capital Greater Malé Region, 384 stations spread across other cities and atolls, and six stations in industrial establishments and prison complexes. Furthermore, we are proud to announce the presence of eight polling stations located in five different countries around the world. If you’re a voter overseas, get ready to make your mark in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, India, the United Kingdom, or Abu Dhabi!

Meet The Candidates: Party Representatives and Independents

Now, let’s have a look at the impressive roster of candidates competing for the highest office. We have a total of eight contenders, consisting of representatives from five established political parties and three determined independent candidates. The Maldivian Democratic Party’s President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is seeking another term, alongside Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for the People’s National Congress, Ilyas Labeeb representing The Democrats, Jumhooree Party’s Gasim Ibrahim, and Mohamed Nazim for the Maldives National Party. The fiercely independent trio vying for the highest office are Ahmed Faris Maumoon, Umar Naseer, and Hassan Zameel. It’s game on!