The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has scheduled seven by-elections of island councils and women's development committees (WDCs) to be held next month.
The electoral body revealed the by-elections are scheduled for October 1 and 22. The first by-election is scheduled to be held on October 1 in Maaungoodhoo, Shaviyani Atoll, to elect a member for the vacant council seat. Two candidates are contesting the election. In addition, WDC by-elections are scheduled to be held in Rasmaadhoo in Raa Atoll, Guraidhoo, in Thaa Atoll, and Dhanbidhoo in Laamu Atoll on the same day. The voting for the by-elections in the four islands will be held from 0800-1600hrs.
Moreover, WDCs by-elections are scheduled to be held on October 22 in Thinadhoo and Felidhoo in Vaavu Atoll and Hoarafushi in Haa Alifu Atoll. ECM said five members are be elected for Thinadhoo and one member each for the remaining two islands.
Speaking at the Parliamentary Committee on Independent Institutions, President of ECM Fuad Thaufeeq revealed the frequent resignation of WDC members has resulted in too many by-elections that are draining the budget provided to the commission. As part of the efforts to solve the concerns raised by the ECM over the rising expenditures on by-elections, a necessary legislative amendment has been proposed to ensure all by-elections are once a year if quorums can be held in councils and WDCs.