The Elections Commission of Maldives has issued formal regulations governing the election of four members to the newly established Media and Broadcasting Commission, laying the groundwork for a process that will shape the future of media oversight in the country.
Established under the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act, the seven-member commission is set to become the nation’s principal authority for media and broadcasting. The legislation prescribes a hybrid structure: four members are to be elected directly by registered media organisations, a process regulated by the Elections Commission, while three will be appointed by Parliament following a separate public application process.
The regulatory framework outlines a sector-specific voting mechanism intended to ensure balanced representation. Of the four elected seats, two are reserved for representatives of broadcasting entities, and two for other media formats. Voting will be segregated accordingly, with broadcasting companies casting ballots exclusively for candidates within their category, and non-broadcast outlets selecting representatives from their respective domain.
Participation is limited to one vote per registered media organisation. To exercise this right, each entity must formally designate a representative with the Elections Commission. In keeping with national electoral procedures, the commission will publish a preliminary list of eligible voters, allow a period for objections and corrections, and subsequently release a final, verified roll.
Candidacy procedures are similarly specified in the regulations. Once the election is officially announced, prospective candidates will be afforded a ten-day window to submit their applications. The commission is required to respond to each submission within 48 hours, confirming eligibility or providing grounds for rejection.
Although the legal framework has now been enacted, the Elections Commission has yet to announce a definitive date for the vote.