The Maldives is preparing for a a parliamentary by-election, a rare event, in its democratic process next month.
This follows a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court on 12 April, which unseated Mohamed Sinan, Member of Parliament for the Hithadhoo North constituency. The court’s unanimous decision came in response to a private petition challenging Sinan’s eligibility, citing his failure to repay a loan of USD 162,127 from the Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB), rendering his seat constitutionally invalid.
Following the vacancy, the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) has scheduled the by-election for 6 June. Nominations for prospective candidates are currently open and will close at 3:00 pm on 29 April.
According to the provisional voter registry released by the ECM, a total of 4,114 eligible voters will be able to cast their ballots. The deadline for submitting complaints regarding the voter list is set for 2:00 pm on 27 April.
The upcoming vote is generating considerable political interest, similar to that of a general parliamentary election. The country’s two largest political parties have already confirmed their intention to contest the seat. Adding to the competitive race, former MP Sinan has also expressed interest in running again.
The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) is currently holding an internal primary, with membership applications closing at 6:00 pm on 19 April. The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has invited applications for its primary until 2:00 pm on the same day.
Voting on election day will take place from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, with official results expected to be announced on 8 June.
As the first such electoral test of public sentiment in this parliamentary term, the Hithadhoo North by-election has drawn nationwide attention, serving as a key indicator of the country’s evolving political landscape.