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No legal obstructions to delay swearing-in ceremony: Elections Commission

Elections Commission of Maldives has revealed there are no legal obstructions to hold the swearing-in ceremony of President-Elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on November 11.

Speaking to PSM News, President of Elections Commission Ahmed Shareef revealed a letter was submitted to clear the swearing-in date by Office of President-Elect, as the presidential term begins on November 11, according to the Constitution of Maldives. However, doubts have been raised by several parties as the current administration took office on November 17, 2013.

After extensive examinations, members of the Elections Commission unanimously decided there are no legal obstructions to hold the swearing-in ceremony on November 11, the head of the electoral body explained.

Furthermore, Ahmed Shareef noted when the presidential term began in 2013, it was noted the term began on November 11, and no complaints or issues were raised during the time. Ahmed Shareef, however, stated the Attorney General’s advice affirms the presidential term to conclude on November 17.

Highlighting even though the Attorney General has advised to delay the conclusion of the presidential term, Shareef expressed there are dates to be followed legally for election purposes and there are no obstacles for Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to swear-in on November 11.

Assuring the decision was made after extensive discussions and evaluations, Shareef revealed the decision has now been forwarded to the parliament.