Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has revealed that it held meetings with foreign government agencies and international organisations to discuss its efforts to hold a free and fair presidential election.
ECM has held discussions with representatives of the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), the Commonwealth, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). The electoral body also met with the ambassadors of Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK and India and discussed the preparations to hold a transparent and fair election as well as the technical assistance to be provided by the countries and organisations.
Additionally, Member of ECM Mohamed Zahir met with representatives of various countries at the 11th Executive Board Meeting of the Association of World Election Bodies (A-WEB). ECM stated that the EU, and the Commonwealth Pre-Election Assessment Mission are closely monitoring the election procedures and that the the Commonwealth mission has also sought information from potential candidates.
ECM has expressed its confidence in organising a fair and transparent presidential election, emphasising the significant presence of observers who are overseeing the entire process. The electoral body has also asserted that no discussions undermining the integrity of the electoral process have taken place, whether with local or foreign agencies.