Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has decided to hold the election for the Council on Islamic Affairs. The decision was made in accordance with the newly-elected Chairperson of the main ruling party, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail, who pledged to re-establish the Islamic Affairs council once he assumes office.
MDP stated that party members interested in becoming a member of the Islamic Affairs council must submit their candidacy with the relevant documents by June 16. These members must meet at least one of the following criteria: They have a certificate of qualification from an Islamic university, they have a qualification to teach Islam, they have a permit to give religious sermons, they are qualified as a Hafiz, or if they have passed an Imam or Quran teaching course.
MDP last held the election for the Islamic Affairs council in 2011. The responsibility of the council is to increase the awareness of Islam, encourage good deeds, discourage bad deeds and advise the main ruling party on religious matters. The council will be led by the president, who will be elected by the members of the National Council. In addition, a vice president will also be elected.