The Election Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has stated that presidential election regulations do not prevent religious scholars from giving religious sermons or spreading religious teachings.
The electoral body has published the regulations for the presidential election, which consist of the code of conduct for candidates and those trying to seek support for candidates. As such, Article 24(a) states that no speech shall be given on religious occasions or during sermons to solicit or diminish support for a particular candidate or party. It also states that schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions shall not provide lessons to gain or diminish support for any candidate or party.
In response to concerns, the President of ECM Fuad Thaufeeq said that the regulations are similar to those of previous elections and that they will not prevent the spread of religious teachings and sermons in the country. He said that religious scholars are allowed to speak at political events but that religious teachings and sermons cannot be used to gain support for a candidate or party.
Additionally, Fuad said ECM respects the freedom of religious scholars to deliver sermons, as long as they refrain from promoting specific candidates or parties. He, however, added that the regulations strictly prohibit any form of anti-campaigning against candidates during elections, be it through religious sermons or political gatherings.