The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) will announce the date of the 2024 parliamentary elections on January 7.
Speaking to PSM News, Vice President of ECM Ismail Habeeb said that a press conference will be held to determine the date of the parliamentary election. The meeting will be held on January 7 at 1030hrs. He said that the list of eligible voters is set to be unveiled on January 10. He also emphasised the importance of considering the election date to maintain voter turnout and address challenges in recruiting election officials.
The parliamentary election coincides with the last days of the month of Ramadan and the ECM has requested the Parliamentary Committee on Independent Institutions to amend the law to hold the parliamentary election earlier. However, the committee earlier recommended that the election be held on the earliest possible date after the month of Ramadan as the law provides a 30-day period after Ramadan to hold the election.
President of ECM Fuad Thaufeeq highlighted the anticipated challenges of conducting the parliamentary elections after Ramadan, especially during the last 10 days, which are public holidays culminating with Eid. ECM has already initiated preparations for the parliamentary election, with political parties opening the application process for party tickets and gearing up for primary elections.