The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has described this year's presidential election as the most well-executed in the country's history.
At a press conference, President of ECM Fuad Thaufeeq highlighted the uniquely positive aspects of this year's presidential election, including the exemplary behaviour of voters who waited patiently in line at the polling stations. He said that the election was perfectly executed and showed an example for the rest of the world, highlighting that the Maldives has been praised for its electoral process.
Also at the press conference, Vice President of ECM Ismail Habeeb said that 30 complaints have been submitted regarding the second round of the presidential election. Two complaints were regarding damaging the ballot box in Vaadhoo, Raa Atoll, and the inclusion of an additional symbol on the ballot papers in Fonadhoo, Laamu Atoll.
Additionally, Habeeb said that 15 complaints were from Male' and 15 were from the atolls but that no complaints were submitted that would lead to a change in the election results. As such, most complaints were regarding alleged corruption, re-registration issues, anti-campaigns, voters' rights, and complaints against election officials.
The polls were open from 0800hrs to 1700hrs on September 30 and police officers were active in all parts of the country. The election concluded peacefully and ECM stated that no incidents occurred to undermine the electoral process.