The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has urged the public to refrain from engaging in any activities that could compromise the safety and security of presidential candidates participating in the upcoming election.
ECM made the statement following the attack on independent presidential candidate Umar Naseer. The incident occurred during a campaign event where he was struck in the face by a metal object hurled from the crowd. The attacker promptly fled the scene following the act.
Vice President of ECM Ismail Habeeb said the law requires all candidates and running mates to be provided with security personnel from the date of the public announcement of the names of the candidates until the presidential election is held. He reminded that it is an offense to compromise the safety and security of any presidential candidate and running mate.
ECM stated that information about the attacker was shared with the Maldives Police Service (MPS). ECM called for the investigation into the assault on Umar to be expedited and the attacker to be brought to justice. ECM called on national security services to stop such an incident if it happens and urged all parties to refrain from such violent acts.