Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has begun accepting applications for candidate representatives, observers and monitors for the second round of the presidential election. Interested individuals are required to submit their application by September 17.
ECM stated that the opportunity is open to individuals who did not receive permission to be candidate representatives, observers and monitors in the first round of the presidential election. Those who have received permission from ECM in the first round of the election and wish to participate in the second round will be able to use their existing passes.
For observers and monitors, ECM will accept applications from individuals that are accredited by a radio or television station registered with the Maldives Broadcasting Commission or by a registered news outlet or magazine. They should also be above 18 years of age and not involved in campaigning for a candidate. If a person is applying to be an independent observer or an observer on behalf of a civil society organisation, they should not be registered to a political party.
Additionally, no person entrusted by ECM to carry out any election-related work shall act as a monitor or observer. Observers and monitors are also required to sign a declaration provided by the electoral body. In addition, if an individual submits more than one application, the first application will be accepted and the other applications will be rejected. Forms with incomplete information or documents will also be rejected.
Furthermore, ECM reserves the right to refuse permission for any individual who is eligible to act as an observer, monitor or candidate-appointed representative on Election Day if the person has been convicted of an electoral offense within the past five years, or has been proven to have violated the code of conduct for elections.