In the aftermath of the first round of the presidential election, the final results revealed a staggering 4,835 invalid votes. This outcome has raised concerns among election monitors and observers, both within the Maldives and abroad. Consequently, the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) has been diligently working to mitigate the number of invalid votes in the upcoming second round.
One of the most striking aspects of the first round of the presidential election was the significant rise in the number of invalid votes. With eight candidates vying for the presidency, it was surprising to see that the count of invalid votes exceeded the total votes received by some candidates. As we approach the second round of the presidential election scheduled for September 30, it is imperative that all eligible voters take note of this crucial issue.
ECM declares the following as invalid votes.
- Ballots with no markings
- Markings for multiple candidates
- Multiple marks opposite the same candidate's name
- Any form of drawing or inscription other than the designated mark
- The use of a pencil in a color other than black or blue
- Exaggerated or excessive markings on ballot papers
The ECM has taken proactive steps to address the issue of increased invalid votes from the first round. As such, comprehensive training sessions have been provided to polling station officials and their assistants, instructing them on the proper criteria for determining valid and invalid votes.
Vice President of ECM Ismail Habeeb also noted attempts by monitors and observers to exert undue influence on voting center heads during the initial counting phase. He emphasised that such actions are not legally permissible, as only two parties have the authority to lodge complaints regarding valid and invalid votes: the candidate and their representatives.
To ensure the validity of each vote, it is imperative that each individual places only one mark. Complaints received by the ECM after the first round included issues with malfunctioning marking pens and difficulties in marking due to polling booth arrangements. The ECM has pledged to ensure the proper functioning of marking pens and will also make necessary adjustments to polling booths for clarity, advising all voters to place only a single mark.
It is noteworthy that this election has seen the highest number of invalid votes in recent history, as indicated by the following statistics:
Presidential Election 2008 (first round): 1,861 invalid votes
Presidential Election 2008 (second round): 2,235 invalid votes
Presidential Election 2013 (first round): 2,331 invalid votes
Presidential Election 2013 (second round): 2,237 invalid votes
Presidential Election 2018: 3,132 invalid votes
With 282,803 eligible voters poised to participate in the second round of the presidential election, it is incumbent upon all citizens to take their voting responsibility seriously and contribute to a fair and accurate electoral process.
The presidential election is a pivotal event that determines the leadership of the Maldives for the next five years. Every Maldivian citizen who has reached the age of 18 possesses the legal right to cast their vote in this election, thereby participating in shaping the future of the nation. Given the importance of this civic duty, it is incumbent upon each eligible voter to exercise their right responsibly. Intentionally voting invalid is an irresponsible decision.