The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has announced the relocation of 43 polling stations to more spacious venues for the second round of voting.
During a press conference, Vice President of ECM Ismail Habeeb addressed the improvements being made for the second round of the presidential election, following issues identified during the first round. He explained that these changes include the relocation of 43 polling stations to larger spaces and an increase in ground managers to oversee queues and guide voters to ballot boxes.
Additionally, Habeeb noted modifications to the voting booths, which will allow individuals to enter when a sign indicates availability. He said that ballot boxes will be marked with bristle boards, having been verified by ECM. He encouraged voters to confirm their polling station locations in advance.
ECM will place two ballot boxes at polling stations with over 500 registered voters to prevent long queues. The commission acknowledged spatial limitations at some polling stations during the first round and decided to make these adjustments for the second round, aiming to enhance the convenience of voters.
The second round of voting is scheduled for September 30, with changes in the number of ballot boxes following re-registration, now totaling 586, up from the initial 574 in the first round.